2010 Navarathiri Golu at Ms.Viji Vijayaraghavan's home, Michigan, USA
Photos: Janaki Vijayaraghavan
Golu is very big in Michigan and a busy time of the year since lots
of households participate in keeping it. During the nine day period,
there's a lot of running around visiting everyone's household, and
inviting everyone you know to your home. The whole family including
husbands and kids take part in it. We have lots of snacks and food for
everyone. I was inspired to keep golu after visiting others during the
first year of my stay in Michigan, and I have in turn passed that
inspiration to others.
My first golu was 3 years ago; it had nine steps and had a very simple
traditional look to it. Every year I strive to add new dolls and create
different themes. I added the Brahmotsavam set my second year, and this
year added bridal couples from different parts of India. In the near
future I would like to do a Sundara Kandam theme, and maybe a temple
with a big tank the year after that. Each year, I like to give my guests
thematic vethla pakku. Last year I gave Thanjavoor paintings with
matching vethla pakku bags and this year I had a Krishna theme.
Golu also means family time for me. It is always nice to spend time with
them and to have their support. I get a lot of support from my family. I
have a great time discussing and deciding on vethala paaku themes with
my sister Lalitha, who lives in India and who goes scouting for new
ideas. My other sister Janaki (from California), my niece Pavithra (from
Boston), her daughter Lakshya and my daughter Janaki, all visit me and
help. We have a wonderful time arranging everything and exchanging
different ideas.
On the whole Golu is a fun time of the year that reminds me of being back home in India.
2010 Navarathiri Golu at Ms.Viji Vijayaraghavan's home, Michigan, USA
2010 Navarathiri Golu at Ms.Viji Vijayaraghavan's home, Michigan, USA
2010 Navarathiri Golu at Ms.Viji Vijayaraghavan's home, Michigan, USA
2010 Navarathiri Golu at Ms.Viji Vijayaraghavan's home, Michigan, USA
2010 Navarathiri Golu at Ms.Viji Vijayaraghavan's home, Michigan, USA
2010 Navarathiri Golu at Ms.Viji Vijayaraghavan's home, Michigan, USA
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