Ancient Kinnal Toys of Karnataka lure visitors at Khilona Fair 2022

Greater Noida, August 27th, 2022: Organized by EPCH, Khilona 2022 is the first edition of the ‘Indian Toy Fair’. Aimed at boosting toy manufacturing in India and improving its existing market potential, the Fair is being held at the India Expo Center and Mart for three days.

Kinnal Toys, one of the exhibitors at the Expo, showcases the art of Kinnal, a small district in Karnataka.
The town is famous for its Kinnal craft, which includes handmade toys and religious idols.

In conversation with Ten News, artist Santosh Kumar from Kinnal Toys provides an insight into this ancient craft.

“It is a 550-year-old art form that focuses on creating artistic products from wood like toys and idols”, he said.

Speaking about the toys that are made for kids, Kumar notes that they are made from a lightweight wood called ‘Pulki’, and organic colors are used for the same, hence they are extremely authentic and safe. “For all these reasons, the toys are safe for children as well as entertaining”, he said.

When asked about the demand for these wooden art pieces, Kumar mentions the efforts of the Indian Government due to which these products are once again being promoted thus protecting its legacy.

Lastly, Kumar notes the rise in the demand for handcrafted toys which helps to conserve its artistic heritage.