What are Channapatna toys?
Q: What are Channapatna toys?
A: Channapatna toys are a particular form of wooden toys and dolls that are manufactured in Channapatna, a town in the Ramanagara district of Karnataka state, India.
Q: Is this traditional craft protected by any organization?
A: Yes, this traditional craft is protected as a geographical indication (GI) under the World Trade Organization, administered by the Government of Karnataka.
Q: Why is Channapatna known as "Gombegala Ooru"?
A: Due to the popularity of Channapatna toys, the town of Channapatna is known as Gombegala Ooru (toy-town) of Karnataka.
Q: Which tree is traditionally used for making these toys?
A: The Wrightia tinctoria tree, colloquially called Aale mara (ivory-wood), is traditionally used for making Channapatna toys.
Q: Where is the majority of Channapatna toy production based?
A: The majority of Channapatna toy production is based in Channapatna taluk in Neelsandra village.
Q: Are Channapatna toys only made of wood?
A: Yes, Channapatna toys are made solely of wood.
Q: What is the process involved in making these toys?
A: The traditional process involves lacquering the wood of the Wrightia tinctoria tree to create the colorful patterns and designs that are characteristic of Channapatna toys.
