Etikoppaka toys tableau stood as big attraction at R-Day event in New Delhi

Vijayawada: The tableau from Andhra Pradesh featuring the renowned Etikoppaka toys was a major attraction at the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi on Sunday.

Decorated with meticulously crafted wooden toys, the display offered a glimpse into the ancient art of Etikoppaka Bommalu -- a 400-year-old craft that is synonymous with eco-friendly creativity and cultural heritage.

The Etikoppaka toys, in the form of mythological figures or animals, have long stood out for their seamless curves, vibrant hues, and delicate details and hence the state government opted for this as AP’s item for the R-Day event in the national capital.

Artisans have perfected the tradition of toy-making in the tiny village of Etikoppaka through generations. The toys bear the name of the village.

They use the soft, malleable wood of the Ankudu tree (Wrightia tinctoria), for the toys chiseled by the artisans. The wood’s light weight and smooth surface allows them engage in intricate carvings, transforming raw timber into exquisite figurines.

The Etikoppaka toys stand apart for their commitment to sustainability. The artisans use natural dyes extracted from plant-based sources like seeds, leaves and bark, to colour the toys in hues of saffron, emerald, and indigo. The process culminates in a lacquer-turning technique, an ancient method where lac-resin is used to seal the colours, creating a lustrous, non-toxic finish.

This is as safe for children as it is beautiful.

Notably, in 2017, the Etikoppaka toys received official recognition with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a hallmark of their authenticity and cultural significance. These toys, with their vivid colours and timeless designs, have since gained international recognition, and are admired by collectors and eco-conscious enthusiasts alike.