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Design Resource
Talai Aati Bommai
The Art of Making Head-Shaking Dolls
by
Introduction
Thanjavur or Tanjore is the headquarters of the Thanjavur district in Tamilnadu. It is situated in the Cauvery delta, at a distance of 314 Km from Chennai. The traditional head-shaking dolls of Thanjavur are well known by its local name as 'Talai aati Bommai'. These dolls take their original standing position though they are moved in any angle. Handmade dolls are made with clay and Plaster of Paris. Base is completely made of clay in a form of dish. The body of doll is created with the moulds and is attached to clay base. Then the dolls are beautifully painted with bright colors to describe the facial expressions. In Thanjavur, there are nearly 10 to 15 families involved in production of clay dolls. These dolls are used in all ritual functions especially in Kolu-ritual display of Thanjavur dolls celebrated during Dasara festival.
