Channapatna

Channapatna is a town in the Ramanagara district of Karnataka, India. It is located approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Bangalore. The town is widely recognized for its distinctive wooden toys, often referred to as Channapatna toys. These toys are made from ivory wood and are known for their vibrant colors, smooth finish, and intricate designs. The craft of toy-making in Channapatna has a long history, reportedly dating back to the reign of Tipu Sultan in the late 18th century. Artisans in the region have traditionally used natural dyes derived from vegetables and minerals for coloring the toys.

The Channapatna toy cluster has been recognized with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, acknowledging the unique craftsmanship and origin of these products. This has helped in preserving the traditional art form and promoting the artisans. The manufacturing process typically involves turning wood on a lathe, carving, and then polishing and coloring the pieces. Common items produced include dolls, puzzles, animal figures, kitchenware, and decorative items. The town serves as a significant hub for the production and sale of these wooden artifacts, attracting tourists and buyers from across India and abroad. Efforts are ongoing to modernize the techniques while retaining the traditional essence of Channapatna toys.