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
The rescued girls are aged between 14 and 17 years. They are from different parts of the country, including Tripura, West Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, while three girls are from Bangladesh, Police Commissioner B. Dayananda said. They will be handed over to their parents, while the victims from Bangladesh will be deported after due procedure.