Any idea about these toys? It’s a 400-year-old craft, and the cultural icons of Andhra Pradesh. As per the records, it’s one of the most sold handicrafts not only in India, but also abroad. To delve deeper into this, you need to visit Kondapalli, a small village in Andhra, which tells tales of a rich artistic legacy. Famous for its exquisitely crafted wooden toys, Kondapalli has become synonymous with a tradition that has stood the test of time. These colorful, handcrafted figurines are more than mere playthings; they are cultural artifacts that reflect the region’s heritage and craftsmanship.

The Kondapalli toy-making tradition dates back over 400 years and is believed to have been introduced by artisans who migrated from Rajasthan. Known as Nakkash artisans, they specialise in crafting toys from the lightweight Tella Poniki wood, sourced from the forests around Kondapalli. This unique wood is known for its softness, making it ideal for intricate carvings.

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The Tella Poniki wood is first shaped into the appropriate shapes. Using age-old techniques, artisans painstakingly carve each item, realizing their vision. The toys are shaped, then covered with tamarind seed paste and allowed to cure. To give these toys their distinctive appearance, the last step is to paint them using colorful acrylic paints or natural dyes.


Animals, mythology, and rural life are common subjects in Kondapalli toys . Among the most common designs are miniature bullock carts, scenery from villages, and gods like Lord Krishna and Ganesha.

The village that keeps the tradition aliveKondapalli village itself is a living museum of this craft. Nearly every household is involved in toy-making, with skills passed down through generations. Despite challenges like dwindling forest resources and competition from mass-produced plastic toys, the artisans of Kondapalli remain committed to preserving their art.

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Although the authenticity of Kondapalli toys is protected by their Geographical Indication (GI) marking, the artists nonetheless confront financial difficulties. To display their art, many rely on government programs and exhibitions. These toys are frequently purchased as souvenirs by visitors to Andhra Pradesh, but the sustainability of the art depends on greater funding and awareness.

Kondapalli toys are more than decorative objects; they showcase India’s rich cultural diversity and the resilience of its traditional crafts. By supporting these artisans, one contributes to preserving an art form that embodies creativity, history, and community spirit.