The Thanjavur dancing dolls represent the glory of the Brihadeeswara Temple and reflect the rich cultural heritage of Thanjavur. These dolls have been crafted since the era of ancient kings.
Origin and History
These dolls are categorized into three types:
- Head-nodding Dolls
- Rolling Dolls
- Dancing Dolls
The rolling dolls are believed to have originated during the reign of Raja Raja Chola I, who ruled Thanjavur in the 11th century. It is said that these dolls were used as a foundational concept in the construction of the Brihadeeswara Temple, also known as Dakshina Meru, built by Raja Raja Chola.
Inspired by the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, built in the 7th century by Mahendravarman I, Raja Raja Chola aspired to construct a similar but more majestic temple. With the assistance of Rashtrakuta kings, a wooden prototype shaped like a rolling doll was crafted.
The structure of this prototype was designed to resemble the Earth’s rotation. The foundation and form of the Brihadeeswara Temple were developed based on this semi-spherical design. It was engineered to withstand all natural calamities, making both the foundation and the temple incredibly strong and scientifically designed. Thus, these dolls are not merely toys or decorations but are linked to the scientific method used in the temple’s construction.
How the Dolls Are Made
During the time of kings, these dolls were made from clay. Today, a mixture of paper pulp, chalk powder, and natural glue is used. This mixture is flattened like a roti (chapati), pressed into male and female molds made of cement, and then sun-dried.
Both the front and back parts are molded similarly. The lower half (Sri Paadam or the sacred foot) and the upper body are then joined together. A mixture called chukkan is applied to bind them. After drying in the sun, the dolls are smoothened with emery paper. Once hardened, they are painted and decorated to become the vibrant Thanjavur Dolls.
Inscriptions and Literary Evidence
There are historical references linking the Brihadeeswara Temple and these dolls. The semi-circular base of the doll, called Sri Paadam, is mentioned in inscriptions. Wood types like Athavallaan and Rajasekari, used in early dolls, are believed to symbolize yogic philosophy (Yogic postures).
The concept of “Marakkal Yoga” refers to a yogic state where the hands and legs are motionless, and the body sways gently in harmony with the Earth’s movements. Even the “Kudine Kal”, a cornerstone, is believed to have a semi-circular shape akin to the doll’s base.
Among the most unique dolls is a small one called “Keskupala Devi”, which fits in the palm of your hand and represents a deity with a sacred base.
There is also a link between the head-nodding dolls and the subtle movement observed in the sanctum sanctorum of temples, known as Ambotha Rangam, as referred to in classical Tamil grammar (Tolkappiyam).
The dual-headed nodding dolls became popular during the early 19th century under Maratha King Serfoji’s reign. These dolls have since been handmade using traditional methods and are now a popular part of the Navaratri Golu (doll festival) displays.
Government Recognition
Previously, more than 500 families were involved in this craft as their livelihood. Today, only 40–50 families continue this traditional occupation. In response, the Tamil Nadu government has initiated cultural programs under the Art Festival Scheme to teach and preserve this heritage craft by training interested students.
In recognition of its uniqueness, the Thanjavur Dolls were granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2009.