Aspect

Details

Origin

Etikoppaka, a small village in Andhra Pradesh, with a 400-year-old wooden toy-making tradition.

Materials

Made from the wood of the Ankudu tree (Wrightia tinctoria), known for being lightweight and malleable.

Dyeing Process

Natural dyes from plant-based sources like seeds, leaves and bark ensure non-toxic and child-safe finishes.

Technique

The lacquer-turning technique provides a lustrous finish, enhancing durability and sealing natural colors.

Cultural Significance

Depicts mythological characters, animals, musical instruments and motifs from ancient civilizations like Mohenjo Daro and Harappa.

Craft Items

Includes spinning tops, household decorations, musical instruments, and Raja-Rani figurines.

GI Tag

Received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2017, preserving authenticity and cultural significance.

International Recognition

Gained admiration from collectors and eco-conscious enthusiasts worldwide.

Toy Name

Material

Origin

Description

Kanapatna Toys

Ivory wood, natural dyes

Karnataka

Handcrafted, colorful, and made with natural dyes

Thanjavur Dolls

Terracotta

Tamil Nadu

Oscillating dolls, known as "Thanjavur Thalaiyatti bommai"

Nirmal Toys

Wood with traditional gold patterns

Telangana

Hand-cut wooden toys with intricate gold patterns

Andhra Pradesh Toys

Soft wood (Tella Poniki)

Andhra Pradesh

Depicts mythological themes and rural life

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.With reference to Geographical Indication (GI) tags for traditional Indian toys, which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 4 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: a

Explanation:

Kondapalli Toys are from Andhra Pradesh.

Channapatna Toys are from Karnataka (not Tamil Nadu).

Thanjavur Dolls are from Tamil Nadu (not Karnataka).

Etikoppaka Toys are from Andhra Pradesh.