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Blue Thanjavur Bommai – Hand-painted Tanjore Dancing Doll
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  • Blue Thanjavur Bommai – Hand-painted Tanjore Dancing Doll
  • Blue Thanjavur Bommai – Hand-painted Tanjore Dancing Doll
  • Blue Thanjavur Bommai – Hand-painted Tanjore Dancing Doll
Blue Thanjavur Bommai – Hand-painted Tanjore Dancing Doll

Blue Thanjavur Bommai – Hand-painted Tanjore Dancing Doll

Rs. 1,600.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Description

Thanjavur Dolls – also called Tanjore Dolls or Thalaiyatti Bommai, meaning "nodding head doll" – trace their history back to the 19th century court of Serfoji II in Thanjavur, whose fascination with mechanical toys and love of vibrant colour gave rise to this now GI-registered craft (recognised by the Government of India in 2008). Blue is a cooler, quieter departure from the reds and oranges more commonly associated with Tanjore craft, making this Bommai an easy fit for contemporary interiors that still want a genuine piece of GI-recognised Tamil Nadu heritage on display.

Built in four hand-assembled parts – head, torso, skirt and base – this doll is weighted so precisely that even the gentlest tap sets it rocking and nodding on its own, a small piece of 19th-century engineering disguised as a toy.

Every EthniiChic Thanjavur doll is handmade from paper mache and hand-painted, keeping alive a craft that has survived largely through home workshops in Tamil Nadu.

Standing 13 inches tall, this Blue Bommai is sized for a console table, a curio shelf or a festive tablescape, and makes a genuinely memorable gift – the kind of piece that starts a conversation the moment someone gives it a nudge. It's a favourite among NRI customers looking to bring home a recognisably South Indian collectible, and among anyone drawn to India's GI-protected craft traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Thanjavur Bommai or Tanjore doll?
It's a traditional rocking or 'nodding head' doll originating from Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, dating back to the 19th-century court of Serfoji II, and recognised as a GI (Geographical Indication) craft of India since 2008.

Why does the doll rock or nod on its own?
The doll's weight is distributed across its head, torso, skirt and base in a way that makes it oscillate gently with even the lightest touch – an old mechanical trick built into the craft itself.

What is it made from, and how delicate is it?
Paper mache, hand-painted and hand-assembled. It's sturdy enough for regular display but should be handled with care and kept away from damp conditions, like most paper mache craft.

Does the Blue colourway have any particular significance?
Colour choice in Thanjavur dolls is largely a matter of personal taste and home styling; the craft itself, the rocking mechanism and the GI recognition remain the same across colourways.

What are the dimensions?
This Bommai stands 13 inches in height.

Is this doll a good gift?
Yes – the Blue Thanjavur Bommai is a popular choice for festive gifting, housewarmings, and for NRI customers wanting an authentic, GI-recognised piece of South Indian craft.
Time to Dispatch

Time of Dispatch: 3-4 working days from placing of order.
Instruction for Care

Wipe using a clean soft cloth for dusting. Keep away from water and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Brand Philosophy

When you order from EthniiChic, you receive more than just a product—you bring home a piece of India’s cultural heritage.

Each creation is handcrafted with care, hand-painted with authentic traditional art forms, and finished to perfection for lasting quality.

Expect vibrant storytelling through design, eco-conscious craftsmanship, and timely, well-packaged delivery that ensures your order arrives safe and ready to adorn your space / yourself.
DISCLAIMER

At EthniiChic, we celebrate the artistry of handmade products, each lovingly crafted by skilled artisans.

Due to this unique handmade nature, minor variations and subtle surface textures are natural and should be embraced as hallmarks of authentic charm and individuality, rather than defects.

Please note that the actual colors of our products may vary slightly depending on your device's screen resolution and any accessories shown in product images are for styling purposes only and are not included with your purchase.

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