For four centuries, Kondapalli wooden toys have remained a testament to enduring craftsmanship. These lightweight, vibrantly coloured toys come from Kondapalli village in Andhra Pradesh. The true magic unfolds in Bommala (toys) Colony. Over time, the toys earned a collectible status, especially Kondapalli Aataobomma, the dancing doll with a moving head.

Dating back 400 years, Kondapalli toy-making was practised by the skilled local artisans of the region. They were known as aryakhastriyas or nakarshalu. The toys are reminiscent of Rajasthan's cultural artefacts, but it remains unique to the Andhra-Telangana region. This art form was promoted by the Reddy kings of Kondapalli Fort. The toys are inspired by mythological characters, rural life, domestic animals, the Dasavatharam (an avatar of Lord Vishnu) and even toddy tappers. This crafts community can be traced back to Muktharishi, a renowned sculptor mentioned in the Brahmanda Purana. They toys are made using simple tools and from tella poniki, a softwood sourced from the Kondapalli Hills. The parts are fused together using makku, a paste of tamarind seed powder and sawdust. Finally, artists add details using vegetable dyes and enamel.

This style was certifdied with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2007. They're fondly displayed during the Bommala Koluvu festival in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Hyderabad-based craftsman Aravind Jashua introduced a modern line of Kondapalli toys, with characters like autorickshaw drivers and traffic policemen. He blended traditional craftsmanship with contemporary tastes, to preserve local artistry.

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