Wooden toys and decoratives had its existence from ages, later on with the discovery of plastic and its cost-effectiveness the importance of the wooden toys has been gradually decreasing and limited itself to home decoratives.
Now with the awareness of hazardous effects of plastic, people are looking for more eco-friendly toys, vegetable dyed wooden toys are gaining prominence. Wooden painted toys locally known as Kondapalli toys are world-famous. In southern states of India, there is a culture of arranging Bommala Koluvu during Dasara and Pongal festivals where they showcase the dolls and kondapalli toys have a special place and adds grandeur. The toys are known for their special feature that adds an ethnic touch to home decor with their finely created figurines. The Kondapalli toys have carved a niche of their own in the world of handicrafts. The Kondapalli toys are made from softwood known as Tella Poniki(White Sanders) which are found in nearby Kondapalli Hills. The wooden piece is heated to make it moisture-free, different parts of the image are carved separately. They are then glued together with an adhesive made of crushed tamarind seeds. Water and vegetable dye colours are used to paint the toys or figurine. Painting is done with soft and thin paint brushes made of goat's hair. The toys depict scenes from actual life, animals, rural folks, deities and characters from the epics. Dancing Doll, Dasavatar, Village Backdrop and Ambari Elephants are among the famous items produced by the artisans here.
This art form which has got extensive patronage from the rulers in ancient times is in decline due to lack of profits,time taken to produce toys, lack of marketing skills, packaging techniques, digital technical skills and influence of western art, younger generations are not encouraged towards this art.
Sri Kanakadurga(DWCRA) (Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas Self Help Group) established in 1998 is supported by AP SERP. This group is into the business of making wooden toys, they are supporting women empowerment by training women to keep this ancient art live with an experience of 20 years, they have unique toy designs of hand made toys but faced hurdles in marketing, advertising, showcasing their products, receiving funds etc
KALGUDI interacted with Sri Kanakadurga Dwcra Self Help Group, listed all their products and exposed them to the digital market. The SHG went live online with KALGUDI and is getting orders from various geographical locations. The listing of their items in KALGUDI has ensured an increase in their product sales, volume of business and product visibility.
They have received orders from many northern regions of India. It is the best gifting options to our kids which is eco-friendly and these can be gifted on various occasions and ceremonies.
Next time when you are gifting, remember that Kondapalli toys are just a click away.
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