Channapatna Toys

December 16, 2023

Toys made in Channapatna near Bengaluru have now become part of children’s academic activities in Afghanistan.
The famed wooden toys are made by artisans in and around Channapatna town of Ramanagara district.
There are over 250 cottage units and around 50 factories that make toys in Channapatna.
Channapatna is also known as Gombegala Ooru (toy-town).
This traditional craft of Karnataka has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2005.
Toys in Channapatna are made from a particular type of wood known as “Aale mara” or ivory wood sourced from nearby forests.
These toys are distinguished by their lacquered finish, achieved through natural dyes derived from vegetable extracts.
The vibrant colors and glossy finish of Channapatna toys set them apart from other wooden crafts.
Channapatna toys are ideal for children as the chemical dye is not used in them and they come without sharp edges.