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THE ARTS
CHANNAPATNA TOYS & DOLLS The ‘Gombegala Ooru’ or toy town of Channapatna is located on the Bangalore-Mysore highway and earns its fame from the handcrafted toys and artifacts unique to this town. The craft is believed to have originated in Persia and came here when Tipu Sultan invited artisans to display their skills and pass them on to the local populace. A variety of wooden dolls and toys for children are characteristic products of this town. Over the years, artisans have diversified to make show pieces and household articles. Ivory wood was initially used, occasionally combined with rosewood and sandalwood. Changing times necessitated substitution of rubber, sycamore, cedar, pine and teak. The eco-friendly use of vegetable colours and their simplicity keep their demand alive even in the modern toy market. The uniqueness and limited operational sphere of this traditional craft has earned it the Geographical Indication (GI) tag under the World Trade Organisation.
Channapatna is known for colourful toys and artefacts.
Karnataka – A Cultural Odyssey