Traditional Thanjavur Dancing Doll Couple

Traditional Thalayatti Bommai or dancing dolls (couple) are an integral part of Navaratri celebrations in South India. These are hand-crafted using paper-mache techniques and then painted by hand. Certainly a labour of love!

The Dancing Dolls on sale at GiriUK, feature a couple in traditional attire from Thanjavur, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage. The term "Thalayatti Bommai" translates to "bobbing head dolls," as their characteristic feature is the nodding heads that mimic a gentle dance movement. These dolls beautifully capture the essence of celebration and joy during Navaratri Golu.

The Dancing Doll couple (Thalayatti Bommai) are not just decorative items; they nurture cultural continuity and devotion. They also bridge generations, allowing older members to share exciting stories about their past while introducing younger ones to the beauty of traditional arts. As the dolls sway, they seem to come alive, embodying the spirit of festivity and devotion that defines Navaratri.