The story
Kinhal craft is linked to the Vijayanagara empire, whose artisans made carved and painted wooden figures for temples and festivals. The Chitragara community in Kinhal village still carves light local wood and paints it in bright natural colours. Their work is used in temple chariots and as decorative toys. Kinhal Toys carry a GI tag.
In numbers
No published source we could open prints current numbers for this cluster.
GI tag
- Kinhal ToysApplication no. GI application no. 213Registration details of Geographical Indications (IP India GI Registry)
Ways in for a newcomer
- Sell Kinhal figures to temples and collectors
- Home decor and gift lines
- Craft tourism linked with Hampi visits
Problems the cluster faces
- Very few active artisan families
- Shortage of suitable wood
- Weak market access
Businesses to start here
Wooden Toy Making (Lacquer Turned Toys) →Wooden Toys and Decorative Pieces →Wood Carving Unit (Photo Frames) →