‘Dolls of India’ at Lulu Mall: A Unique Children’s Day Celebration Connecting Kids to Art and Heritage

Lucknow: On the occasion of Children’s Day, Lulu Mall, Lucknow, hosted a vibrant cultural initiative, “Dolls of India”, celebrating India’s rich heritage of traditional doll-making, handicrafts, and sustainable artistry. In collaboration with Seth Anandram Jaipuria Schools, the three-day event from November 14 to 16, 2025, merged education, creativity, and cultural pride, transforming the mall into a lively hub of learning and artistry.

The exhibition featured 25 traditional dolls from across India, each reflecting a unique craft and story. Highlights included Bihar’s Madhubani dolls, Chhau masks from Jharkhand, puppets from Rajasthan and Telangana, and tribal dolls from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. One of the main attractions was Moonj Dolls from Uttar Pradesh, crafted from eco-friendly Moonj grass, symbolizing rural life, sustainable craft, and women’s empowerment. Local artisans were given a platform to showcase and preserve these timeless traditions.

The three-day program offered children and families a hands-on cultural experience:

• November 14 – Doll-Making Workshop: Kids learned traditional techniques while creating their own dolls.

• November 15 – Clay Art Workshop: Participants explored imaginative, eco-conscious art with clay.

• November 16 – Grand Puppet Show: Lucknow’s first-ever puppet show in a mall, filled with humor, music, and folk tales.

Additional attractions included live pottery demonstrations, fabric doll-making, and an origami workshop, providing children a rare opportunity to engage directly with traditional crafts. Lulu Mall honored all artists who contributed to preserving India’s cultural heritage.

The event was inaugurated by Vishak G Iyer, DM Lucknow, who praised the initiative for promoting cultural awareness and sustainability among children. Other dignitaries in attendance included Alok Shukla (Director & State Head, CII), Vice Principal of Seth Anandram Jaipuria School Shahid Path,  Pankaj Rathore, and  Monika Taneha Mankatala.

Sameer Verma, Regional Manager, Lulu Mall, expressed delight at the enthusiastic response:
"It was heartwarming to see children and families celebrating India’s arts and culture together. This initiative truly reflects the spirit of Children’s Day — where joy, learning, and tradition come together."

 Pankaj Rathore of Seth Anandram Jaipuria Schools added:
"Collaborating with Lulu Mall reinforces our belief that education extends beyond classrooms. Connecting children to traditional arts fosters creativity, environmental awareness, and respect for culture."

“Dolls of India” stood as a beautiful tribute to India’s artisans, highlighting that tradition, creativity, and sustainability can coexist. The festival concluded on a note of joy, smiles, and cultural pride — a reminder that when heritage is celebrated from the heart, it becomes timeless.