During the festival, intricately designed and decorated dolls, known as "Puku Bommalu," are created and worshiped as embodiments of Goddess Durga and her various avatars. These dolls are made from a variety of materials, including clay, wood, and paper, and are often adorned with beautiful clothes, jewelry, and ornaments.
As Leela learned the art of creating Puku Bommalu (wooden dolls), she discovered that these dolls were not just mere playthings but an integral part of Andhra Pradesh's cultural heritage. The dolls were made from locally sourced wood, and their designs were inspired by the region's rich mythology, folklore, and everyday life.
The preparations for Andhra Ammai Puku Bommalu begin well in advance. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, and decorated with intricate rangoli designs, colorful flowers, and traditional Telugu handicrafts. Women, especially mothers, are pampered with special spa treatments, massages, and relaxing baths. They are then adorned in beautiful traditional attire, including elegant sarees, exquisite jewelry, and decorative bangles.
Efforts are being made to preserve and promote Andhra Ammai Puku Bommalu, ensuring its continuation for future generations. These initiatives include: Andhra Ammai Puku Bommalu
The creation of Andhra Ammai Puku Bommalu is an art form that requires great skill and craftsmanship. Artisans and craftsmen from across the state come together to create these exquisite dolls and toys, using a variety of materials such as wood, clay, and fabric. The dolls are meticulously designed and painted, with intricate details and ornaments that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh.
The puppetry performances are an essential part of the festival, as they depict various mythological and social themes. The puppets are often used to convey moral messages and educate the audience on various social issues.
The festival also has the potential to boost tourism in the region, with Andhra Ammai Puku Bommalu being promoted as a major tourist attraction. The celebrations offer a unique experience for visitors, who can immerse themselves in the local culture, traditions, and hospitality. The dolls were made from locally sourced wood,
Andhra Ammai Puku Bommalu hold a special place in the hearts of the people of Andhra Pradesh. These dolls are often exchanged as gifts during special occasions, such as weddings and festivals. They are also used in traditional folk dances and performances, adding a touch of elegance and charm to the events.
The origins of Andhra Ammai Puku Bommalu date back to the 10th century, when it is believed to have evolved from the traditional temple art of Andhra Pradesh. The art form was initially performed by Brahmin priests, who used puppets to retell stories from Hindu mythology and epics, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Over time, the art form spread throughout the region, and puppeteers began to develop their own unique styles, techniques, and stories.
During the festival, various cultural programs and events are organized, including traditional music and dance performances, drama, and folk arts. The festival also features a range of traditional foods and delicacies, including Andhra Pradesh's famous cuisine, such as biryani, pulihora, and sweets like bobbatlu and ariselu. Women, especially mothers, are pampered with special spa
Each puku bommalu carried a story. Artisans etched motifs from tales, Buddhist Jataka , or regional legends such as Bobbili Samar and Gorintaku love songs. When a child held a doll representing Savitri , for instance, elders recounted her devotion and bravery, thereby preserving moral lessons. In this way, the doll functioned as a portable, three‑dimensional “storybook,” linking the domestic sphere with the larger mythic imagination of Andhra.
Anthropologists such as have documented how toys act as “social scripts.” In Andhra, the puku bommalu offered a rehearsal space for girls to practice domestic roles—cooking, caring for children, arranging a marriage procession—through imaginative play. Such rehearsals cemented the notion that a woman’s primary sphere was the home, a belief that persisted well into the 20th century.