Channapatna: Wood toys, for good

The word “Channapatna” literally means “good town”, but the more colloquial name for it, gives a better idea of what the town is all about: “Gombegala ooru,” or place of toys! Channapatna is known for its wood lacquered toys, made using natural colours. Safe for children, these toys are popular in India and abroad. The streets of the town are full of the toys, and there is also a craft park that spotlights artisans. One organization stands out for the way it has structured the economics of it all: Artisan’s Pride, a producer company that the artisans own. Uma, 38, who has been with Artisan’s Pride for the past fifteen years, says she is happy about the new development. “It feels good that we are part owners of this organization we have been with for so long.”