Navaratri Doll Exhibit Captures Tradition & Culture

Press

On a crisp Sunday afternoon, Sal Media had the privilege of covering a unique cultural event hosted by Srinivas Jayashankar at his home in East Meadow. From the outside, the house blends into the suburban neighborhood, but stepping into the backyard reveals a world of vibrant tradition and dedication. Jayashankar’s annual Navaratri display is a sight to behold — an elaborate showcase of roughly 3,000 meticulously curated dolls and figures, arranged to tell stories deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and history.

Walking down the basement stairs, decorated with colorful kites and marigold garlands, visitors are greeted by intricate scenes that blend spirituality with artistry. For this year’s display, Jayashankar focused on themes from Southern India’s culture and the Mahabharata epic. A particularly striking piece was the portrayal of Bhishma, a key figure from the Mahabharata, shown lying on a bed of arrows — a powerful and emotional scene accented with real sand to recreate the setting.

The exhibit isn’t just a static display — it actively involves the community, especially younger generations. Children from the neighborhood engaged in activities like storytelling and doll role-playing, learning about the values and stories depicted in the displays. Workshops led by Jayashankar help them connect with their heritage in a hands-on and meaningful way.

One of the unique aspects of this year’s exhibit was the inclusion of QR codes, allowing visitors to scan and access videos of Jayashankar explaining the stories behind each display. The integration of modern technology brought a fresh and interactive element to the event, allowing visitors to dive deeper into the cultural and historical significance of the scenes.

Navaratri, a nine-day festival celebrating the Hindu Mother Goddess, is marked by devotion to different forms of the goddess: Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. Each of these goddesses was honored in Jayashankar’s displays, with vibrant, symbolic figures representing the themes of protection, prosperity, and knowledge. The tenth day, known as Dussehra, celebrates the triumph of good over evil, marking the festival’s powerful conclusion.

The artistry in Jayashankar’s doll arrangements reflects his deep cultural roots. Dolls made from clay, wood, and fabric, purchased from traditional dollmakers in Southern India, were arranged to recreate historical moments, famous landmarks, and religious stories. The Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary display, complete with miniature birds and natural elements, was one of the highlights of this year’s exhibit.

Families from the community, dressed in traditional attire, visited the exhibit, reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation in a new environment. For immigrants and their children, who may feel distanced from their cultural roots, Jayashankar’s display provides an essential bridge, offering both education and celebration.

By engaging with children, Jayashankar ensures that these cultural practices continue to thrive. After the workshops, the children are quizzed on the themes of the displays, adding an element of fun and competition while passing down important lessons. This blend of education and celebration is central to the event’s success in fostering a deep sense of pride in cultural identity.

As visitors explored the displays, it became clear that the exhibit was not just about celebrating Navaratri; it was about preserving a connection to a rich heritage and sharing it with the next generation. For Jayashankar, it’s a labor of love, one that continues to grow each year and brings the community together to celebrate both history and faith.

Another key highlight was the inclusion of the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary display, a serene representation of one of India’s natural treasures. The depiction of local flora and fauna, combined with mythical elements, allowed visitors to experience the beauty of Southern India’s biodiversity within Jayashankar’s home. The exhibit’s blend of spirituality, environmental awareness, and cultural history is something that tells a story to all that visit.

Sal Media’s coverage of this event highlights the visual beauty and emotional connection the community shares during Navaratri. It was an honor to document such a meaningful celebration of cultural heritage, one that will resonate for generations to come.

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