Wooden toys known as Channapatna toys are produced in the Indian state of Karnataka town of Channapatna. They are renowned for their vibrant colours and meticulous craftsmanship. Toys made by Channapatna are GI-tagged, which means they have a geographic indicator. This indicates that the product is linked to a particular geographic area, and that both its quality and reputation are a result of that area. Channapatna toys received the GI badge in 2006.
The Wodeyar dynasty ruled Channapatna in the 17th century, which is when Channapatna toys first appeared. The Wodeyars supported the arts and crafts and promoted the growth of Channapatna’s toy manufacturing sector.
Making Channapatna toys was a long-standing practise that finally grew to be a significant industry in the area. The toy makers of Channapatna created a distinctive design for their toys using a range of woodcarving methods. Because of this, the toys have exquisite details and vibrant colours.
Sandalwood, rosewood, and teak are just a few of the several types of woods used to make Channapatna toys. After the wood has been cut into the correct shape, it is brightly painted. Gold or silver leaf is frequently used to embellish the toys.
Toys from Channapatna are a well-liked tourist memento and are exported to numerous nations.
The GI tag for Channapatna toys helps to protect the product from imitation and to promote it to a wider audience.
The following are some of the factors that make Channapatna toys important as GI-tagged goods:
- They have been produced locally in and around Channapatna for many years.
- They have detailed texture and vivid colours because to a special type of woodcarving that was used in their creation.
- They are a premium product that is exported to several nations throughout the globe.
- They are linked to a particular area, which helps to preserve their reputation and excellence.
- They provide many residents of the area with a means of subsistence.
Channapatna toys are a unique and valuable product that is an important part of the cultural heritage of Karnataka. The GI tag helps to protect this product and to promote it to a wider audience.
Here are some of the popular Channapatna toys:
- Elephant toys: Elephants are a popular motif in Channapatna toys. They are often carved in a sitting position with their trunks raised.
Horse toys: Horse toys are also popular in Channapatna. They are often carved in a rearing position with their legs outstretched.
Bird toys: Bird toys are another popular type of Channapatna toy. They are often carved in a flying position with their wings spread.
Car toys: Car toys are a relatively new addition to the Channapatna toy industry. They are often carved in a realistic style and painted in bright colors.
People toys: People toys are also a popular type of Channapatna toy. They are often carved in a traditional style and painted in bright colors.
Fun facts about channapatna toys:
- The toys are often made in pairs, such as a boy and a girl, or an elephant and a horse.
- The toys are often used in religious ceremonies, such as the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
- The toys are also used as teaching tools, as they help children learn about different animals and objects.
- The toys are a source of livelihood for many people in the town of Channapatna.
