From Chennai to Pune: A Software Engineer’s Journey to Curate a Unique Golu Display
Jaya Ramesh, a software engineer from Chennai, now based in Pune, shares her unique Golu display that captures the essence of Navratri celebrations and the Jyotirlingas.
NavratriGolu DisplayJyotirlingasCultural TraditionsCommunityReal Estate PuneSep 28, 2025
Jaya shares her nostalgia, “When our children were younger, we used to celebrate with two parallel displays: one following the traditional golu arrangement, and another crafted by the children with themes like dollhouses, race tracks, and jungle safaris.” Over the years, Jaya has curated her own themes, ranging from Warkari traditions to Krishna Leela.
This year, her theme is the Jyotirlingas. The idea took root when a close friend set out to visit all 12 Jyotirlingas before her 50th birthday this October. Beginning in Rameshwaram last November, they journeyed month after month, covering 2–3 shrines each time.
Through her display, Jaya wants to capture the uniqueness of each Jyotirlinga. She commissioned models of every temple, recreated the sanctum sanctorums with the distinct Shiv lingas, and added mementos from each temple. She marks, “It is not merely a display, but a living tapestry of devotion, tradition, and the stories each temple holds.”
For Jaya, Navratri is as much about community as it is about worship. She welcomes friends and family to join in, celebrating the cultural and spiritual significance of the season. Each morning, she performs a puja and chants the Durga Suktam, Shree Suktam, and Medha Suktam, invoking the blessings of Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. Evenings conclude with an aarti, followed by prasad: Navadhanya Sundal—a wholesome dish made of sprouted legumes with a light tempering, symbolizing nourishment and grace.
“The heart of Navratri is community. The offerings, the display, and the festive cheer bring loved ones together,” she smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Golu display?
A Golu display is a stepped arrangement of dolls and figurines that marks Navratri celebrations in the southern states of India. It is a tradition where families display a series of dolls on steps, often depicting various mythological and cultural themes.
Why did Jaya Ramesh choose the Jyotirlingas as this year's theme?
Jaya Ramesh chose the Jyotirlingas as this year's theme because a close friend set out to visit all 12 Jyotirlingas before her 50th birthday. Jaya was inspired by this journey and wanted to capture the uniqueness and stories of each Jyotirlinga through her Golu display.
What are Jyotirlingas?
Jyotirlingas are 12 sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, each believed to be a manifestation of Shiva in the form of a Jyotirlinga or a column of light. These shrines are located across India and are considered highly revered pilgrimage sites.
How does Jaya Ramesh involve her community in the Navratri celebrations?
Jaya Ramesh involves her community by welcoming friends and family to join in the celebrations. Each morning, she performs a puja and chants hymns, and evenings conclude with an aarti and prasad, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared joy.
What is the significance of Navadhanya Sundal in Jaya's Navratri celebrations?
Navadhanya Sundal is a wholesome dish made of sprouted legumes with a light tempering. It symbolizes nourishment and grace, and is offered as prasad during Navratri. This dish is an important part of Jaya's celebrations, representing the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival.
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