Kadapa ‘Raja-Rani Dolls’ seek marketing help

The Andhra Pradesh MSME Development Corporation recently identified the region as a Raja-Rani Dolls Cluster, a decision welcomed by the artisans.
Villagers of Settigunta and Lakshmigaripalle involved in the carving of Raja-Rani Dolls
Villagers of Settigunta and Lakshmigaripalle involved in the carving of Raja-Rani Dolls| Express
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KADAPA: Artisans in Settigunta and Lakshmigaripalle, known for their intricate wooden Raja-Rani dolls, are seeking the State government support to preserve their century-old craft, much like the recognition given to Etikoppaka toys as a symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage. The local artisans are urging the State government to help them market their dolls nationally.

For decades, around 100 families of Settigunta and Lakshmigaripalle villages in the Railway Koduru region of the erstwhile Kadapa district have been crafting Raja-Rani wooden dolls and other intricately designed wooden toys that enjoy demand not only in the Telugu States but also in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

The Andhra Pradesh MSME Development Corporation recently identified the region as a Raja-Rani Dolls Cluster, a decision welcomed by the artisans. Under the Government of India’s Ministry of MSME, cluster development programmes require the State government proposals for approval. Therefore, the State government submitted a Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by ITCOT National Technical Agency proposing a `6 crore budget for land development, building construction, and machinery.

The feasibility of the project is currently under review by SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India), with field inspections expected in February. The project is likely to take shape by June-July, with 85% funding from the Centre and 15% from the State. Once approved, the initiative gives an impetus to the local toy-making industry through training programmes, necessary infrastructure and machinery to sustain the makers, thereby carrying on the intricate tradition.

Located along the Kurnool-Chittoor National Highway, these villages have a 100-year-old legacy of wooden toy-making, with nearly 100 families engaged in the craft. Men, women, and children alike contribute to this art form, skillfully shaping wood into intricate figures.

The Raja-Rani dolls have a substantial market at sacred pilgrimage sites in the State and also in neighbouring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka where these dolls are gifted during weddings as a long-standing tradition.

The craft gained national attention between 1997 and 2002 when government-backed exhibitions across the country showcased these toys. A notable moment came when artisans from the region presented their Shakuntala wooden doll crafted from white pumpkin wood at an exhibition in Hyderabad, where it caught the eye of then-US President Bill Clinton, who purchased it.

In 1993, artisans formed the Sri Lakshmi Venkateswara Artistic Wooden Toy Makers Cooperative Society, led by K Subbarayudu Achari. While earlier generations relied solely on this craft for livelihood, many families have since shifted to other professions due to dwindling support.

Speaking to TNIE, K Subbarayudu Achari emphasised that recognition as a Raja-Rani Dolls Cluster would boost training programmes, infrastructure development, and national-level marketing opportunities.

He highlighted the unique demand for Settigunta dolls, particularly in neighbouring states where similar toys are unavailable, reinforcing the need for government-backed promotion and expansion.

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