Navaratri Golu 2026: The Meaning of Nine Steps and Dolls

Navaratri Golu is a traditional practice of arranging dolls on steps during the Navaratri festival. Each of the nine steps represents a stage of life, from plants and other living beings to humans, sages and deities. The arrangement symbolises the gradual evolution of life and the spiritual journey towards divinity.

What Dolls Should Be Placed on Each Step of Navaratri Golu?

First Step: Plants

The first step represents one-sense living beings. Dolls depicting grass, plants, creepers and other forms of vegetation are placed here.

Second Step: Two Sense Living Beings

The second step represents living beings believed in this tradition to have two senses. Dolls of snails and conches are placed on this step.

Third Step: Three Sense Living Beings

The third step represents three-sense living beings. Dolls depicting termites and ants are traditionally placed here.

Fourth Step: Four Sense Living Beings

The fourth step represents four-sense living beings, such as crabs and beetles.

Fifth Step: Five Sense Living Beings

The fifth step features dolls of animals and birds, representing living beings with five senses.

Sixth Step: Human Beings

The sixth step represents humans, who are traditionally described as having six senses.

Seventh Step: Sages

The seventh step features dolls of sages and rishis, symbolising spiritual wisdom and higher knowledge.

Eighth Step: Deities

The eighth step is dedicated to celestial beings and deities. It may include the Navagrahas, deities associated with the five elements and the Ashtadikpalakas, who are traditionally regarded as guardians of the eight directions.

Ninth Step: The Principal Gods and Goddesses

The ninth and highest step features the Hindu trinity—Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva—along with their consorts Saraswati, Lakshmi and Parvati. Goddess Adi Parashakti is placed at the centre as the principal divine presence.

The Philosophy Behind Navaratri Golu

The nine step arrangement represents the traditional belief that life progresses from simpler forms towards human existence, spiritual wisdom and divinity. It reminds devotees of the importance of knowledge, spiritual growth and devotion.

Although the types of dolls and their arrangement may vary between families, the central idea of Navaratri Golu is to celebrate creation, devotion and the journey towards spiritual understanding.