Traditional dolls set to catch eyeballs at Navaratri Bombe Habba

Chikkamagaluru: For nine days, stories of gods, kings, glimpses of village life and contemporary society will come alive in miniature form, not on a stage but on tiers through beautifully arranged dolls. This is the unique charm of Bombe Habba.To preserve the rich traditions, art and history associated with Navaratri, the Chikkamagaluru District Brahmin Mahasabha will organise a nine-day Navaratri Bombe Habba at Ranganna Kalyana Mantapa from Oct 11. District president P Manjunatha Joshi described the event as more than just an exhibition. “It is a living museum of our culture and heritage,” he told reporters on Friday.According to Joshi, the tradition of displaying dolls during Navaratri occupies a special place in Karnataka’s cultural heritage. “Kings and maharajas used to install and worship Pattada Bombe, or royal dolls, in their palaces. What began as a royal custom gradually spread to ordinary households during the reign of the Mysore rulers,” he said.A practice once confined to palaces has now become an integral part of celebrations in homes across the region.Last year, seven renowned Bombe Manes -Anjanadri, Andal, Doopadakol, Mysuru, Myurashilpi, Kanaka Shankaregowda and Jaji - showcased their collections at the venue. Organisers expect even greater participation this year, with more families displaying treasured heirloom dolls passed down through generations.A Bombe Mane is much more than a collection of dolls. Each tier narrates a distinct story.The lower steps typically depict scenes from everyday life, including markets, villages, weddings and farming activities. The middle tiers feature themes such as Ashtalakshmi, social messages and contemporary issues, while the topmost levels showcase deities, scenes from the Puranas and the Pattada Bombe, symbolising royal authority and prosperity.“The exhibition will feature displays on the worship of deities, stories from the puranas, social and artistic themes, the significance of Pattada Bombe, village life and contemporary issues,” Joshi said. The highlight of this year’s exhibition will be a pair of intricately carved sandalwood dolls representing a king and queen, he added.Entry to the exhibition is free. Organisers hope the event will help younger generations understand the cultural significance of Navaratri and appreciate traditions that have been preserved through centuries.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mysuru | Silver Rate in Mysuru | Bank Holidays in Mysuru | Public Holidays in MysuruStay updated with the latest Mysuru news. Download the TOI App.