Watch | Making of Thanjavur’s famous ‘thalaiyatti’ dolls
The Hindu
Famously known as thalaiyatti, or bobble-head dolls, Thanjavur’s papier mache dolls have become tourist souvenirs in recent times
Remember the Chettiar bommai, a bobblehead doll used for golu during Navaratri in homes? It is a Thanjavur doll.
These beautifully handcrafted dolls showcase the rich cultural heritage of Thanjavur district in Tamil Nadu.
All the dolls have a lightweight body made of tapioca flour, papier mache and plaster of Paris cooked and kneaded to the consistency of ‘roti’ dough.
However, the makers of these dolls have been facing a tough time as many artisans have gone into other professions.
Read the full story to know more: Keeping Thanjavur doll industry out of the doldrums is no child’s play
Reporting: Nahla Nainar
Videos: R. Vengadesh
Mumbai faces a severe air pollution crisis, impacting residents' health and escalating medical expenses amid bureaucratic inaction.
Rupee at 90: foreign capital exits, imports jump, and RBI eases its defence. A breakdown of the market forces and policy choices shaping the currency slide.
North Goa club midnight blaze follow The Hindu LIVE updates on December 7 2025
Australia activates disaster relief for New South Wales as wildfires threaten properties and infrastructure, with no casualties reported.
Australia’s Pat Cummins confirms he’ll return for the third Ashes Test, easing concerns for the struggling England side.
The Shakespeare Millennium Club in collaboration with the Annai Velankanni Church (Society of St. Vincent De Paul), conducted a Free Medical Camp on November 23, 2025 at the church premises from 9 am to 6 pm, with Dr. Samundi Sankari and Dr. Divya Sivaraman of Srushti Hospitals, Dr. Sharada L N of Aramba, the Kumaran Dental Clinic, Lychee and Satya Physiotherapy Centre, according to a press release.
Hyderabad police support senior citizens living alone, enhancing safety, preventing fraud, and fostering community connections through regular visits.
Explore the vital role of Humanities in fostering critical thinking, empathy, and social harmony amid the STEM-focused higher education landscape.
Tiruvannamalai removes 450 metric tonnes of waste from Maha Deepam day in a two-day cleanup by 2,300 workers.
Chennai Metrowater raises tanker tariffs and removes trip caps to address rising production costs and enhance bulk water supply.
Tamil Nadu commits to enhanced collaboration with the National Green Tribunal for effective environmental governance and protection initiatives.
On Ambedkar's death anniversary, CM Rekha Gupta highlights his enduring ideals of social harmony, equality, and justice.
The Banyan launches the Keshav Desiraju Lived Experience Repository in Chennai to preserve mental illness narratives across various formats.