Golu / Bommala Koluvu Abroad 2026 — Setup, Dolls & Where to Buy

Golu (Bommala Koluvu / Bommai Golu) is the beautiful South-Indian Navratri tradition of arranging dolls and figurines on tiered steps. NRIs lovingly recreate it abroad each year. This NRIGlobe guide covers Golu / Bommala Koluvu abroad 2026 — how to set it up, what dolls to use, and where to buy them.

Golu is displayed through Navratri (11–20 October 2026). Traditionally an odd number of steps (3, 5, 7, 9) is used, topped by the Kalasha and the deities.

How to Set Up a Golu

Arrange an odd number of tiered steps (a padi) — a wooden/foldable stand or sturdy shelves work abroad
Cover with clean cloth
Top steps: gods and goddesses (the Kalasha/Marapachi dolls take pride of place)
Middle steps: saints, gurus, dashavatara, and mythological scenes
Lower steps: everyday life, parks, weddings, professions, and the popular Chettiar (merchant) set
Place a Kalasha and light the lamp; keep a small area for daily puja

Dolls & What They Represent

Marapachi bommai (wooden couple dolls) — auspicious, often gifted at weddings
Dashavatara and deity sets
Theme sets — village life, weddings, processions, and modern scenes
A new doll/theme added each year is a cherished custom

Where to Buy Golu Dolls Abroad

Indian/South-Indian stores in metros stock golu dolls and steps in season
Online vendors ship golu sets internationally — order early
Many NRIs reuse and add to their collection yearly, and craft dolls at home

Golu Etiquette & Visits

Invite friends and family to view your Golu (a social highlight of Navratri)
Offer tamboolam (betel leaves, fruit, small gifts) and sundal (a savoury chana snack) to visitors
Sing devotional songs before the Golu
On Vijayadashami, symbolically put one doll to "sleep" to mark the end

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Golu / Bommala Koluvu?

A South-Indian Navratri tradition of arranging dolls and figurines on an odd number of tiered steps, displayed through the nine days.

How many steps should a Golu have?

Traditionally an odd number — 3, 5, 7 or 9 — depending on your space and collection.

Where can I buy Golu dolls abroad?

At South-Indian/Indian stores in metros and from online vendors that ship internationally. Order early and add a new doll each year.

Final Word

Recreate the joy of Golu this Navratri 2026 abroad — set up your steps, arrange your dolls, invite friends for sundal and tamboolam, and keep the tradition alive. Jai Mata Di!