Madurai, Oct. 14 -- Ashokan from Madurai eagerly awaits Navaratri every year, as the festival gives him an opportunity to collect Golu dolls, a festive tradition he has been following for the past 25 years.

Golu dolls, a cherished part of India's cultural heritage, are traditionally displayed during Navaratri, especially in southern states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Known by different names across regions, including Bommai Golu in Tamil Nadu, Bommala Koluvu in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and Bombe Habba in Karnataka, the tradition involves arranging colourful figurines on a series of tiered steps.

The displays feature a variety of dolls depicting Hindu gods and goddesses, mythological characters, scenes from epi...