Channapatna Toys

Channapatna toys traditional Indian craft thrives in Channapatna, Karnataka’s Ramanagara district, often called “Toy Town.” Artisans here handcraft wooden toys, dolls, and home décor using a centuries-old lacquerware technique unique to the region. The town’s workshops are filled with the hum of lathes and the scent of seasoned wood, reflecting a vibrant legacy.

The craft’s roots trace back to the 18th century, when Tipu Sultan invited Persian artisans to teach wood turning and lacquering. This royal support established Channapatna as a center for lacquered toys, which soon became integral to local traditions and livelihoods. Over time, artisans shifted from luxury woods to sustainable local varieties, blending Persian and regional skills.

The primary material is hale mara or ivory wood (Wrightia tinctoria), known for its softness and fine grain. Artisans season the wood, shape it on lathes, and color each piece with lac mixed with natural vegetable dyes like turmeric and indigo. The lacquer is applied by pressing colored sticks against the spinning wood, with palm leaves used for the final polish, giving the toys their signature sheen and vibrant colors.

Today, Channapatna’s toy industry includes home workshops and small factories, with many women participating. The product range now covers dolls, puzzles, educational toys, jewelry, and home accessories, all made with non-toxic, eco-friendly dyes. The sector supports over 1,500 artisans and benefits from government and NGO support for skill development and market access.

Channapatna toys are valued for their sustainability, safety, and craftsmanship. Their use of natural materials and dyes, along with their durability and bright finish, have earned them a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, boosting their appeal in India and abroad.