Introduction to Indian Toys
Indian Toys have a deep-rooted heritage and history which goes back 5000 years to the times of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro. Indian Toys are inspired by the diverse Indian traditions and culture, from miniature carts, dancing figurines, and wooden toys to jute toys, every Indian toy has a historical significance that intertwines seamlessly with its toy-making legacy that are now termed as antique toys. The Indian old-fashioned toys serve as a knowledge portal of cultural narratives. Influenced by religion, these vintage toys often translate scenes from revered epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. This rich history of handmade traditional Indian toys and their craftsmanship even today continues to draw attention and is popular amongst kids. This helps in preserving India's cultural essence through the everlasting charm of these timeless Indian toys.
History of Indian Toys
The history of Indian Toys can be traced back to the Harappan civilization, they weren't just used as toys for play but also to tell stories. During that era, children commonly played with animal figurines, utensil sets, puzzle games, and carts. These antique toys often featured straightforward mechanisms.
Indian toys, both vintage and antique toys, have long been cherished for their cultural significance and educational value in a child's upbringing. Most of these antique toys were crafted from natural materials like clay, wood, and cloth by skilled artisans across different regions of India,these indian toys majorly helped in supporting the child’s cognitive and sensory skills while narrating folklores and holding cultural significance.
Mostly these Indian toys are sold at local fairs or scouring antique markets, there's a treasure trove of retro toys waiting to be discovered. A nostalgic journey through India's rich toy-making tradition, inviting collectors to embrace the charm of these old fashioned toys.
Antique or Vintage Indian Toys
Indian toys from Punjab, for instance, old fashioned toys often portray animals, birds, and bullock carts, to represent the region's cultural influence. Among the popular choices are 'handwa', a localized version of the kitchen set kit, alongside timeless classics like 'lattu' (spinning top) and 'ghuggu' (rattlebox).
Rajasthani toys are mostly colorful. In vibrant yellows, reds and green, these cloth dolls are frequently used in puppetry shows to narrate the tales of Rajasthan.
Enthusiasts of Indian culture, who want to own a piece of history, will find many vintage toys for sale, these Indian toys offer a delightful glimpse of the past with their handcrafted appeal and decades of craftsmanship.
Traditional Indian Toys vs Modern Indian Toys
Traditional Indian toys are made from eco-friendly materials such as clay, wood, jute, bamboo and paper. Most of these traditional Indian toys online are handmade and each craft is deeply rooted in cultural and artisanal craftsmanship. From intricately carved wooden figurines to vibrant cloth dolls, these antique toys tell stories of India's rich history and evoke a sense of connection to the past. You will find many vintage toys for sale online
In contrast, modern Indian toys are innovative and offer a fresh take on classic designs while catering to contemporary tastes. Modern Indian toys bring excitement and creativity to playtime, they are interactive, fun and also offer learning. Plus with a fast paced growth in the toy industry most of them are mass-produced while compromising quality.
Indian Vintage toys facing modern threat
The Indian Toy industry is growing rapidly with an increased demand in modern toys, that are innovative with a blend of traditional designs. Due to this increased demand of old toys, Indian toy business owners are forced to mass produce which results in them resorting to using lower grade materials and compromising on quality of these indian toys.
You will find a vintage toy list of handmade traditional indian toys that reflects years of fine craftsmanship that is unmatched, these vintage toys are handmade in smaller quantities but are comparatively expensive, therefore modern toys become a viable option for the new generation parents. It is projected that with the current demand rate of indian toys, most of these antique toys for sale will become obsolete and traditional toy stores will be forced to choose modern solutions.
Preservation and Promotion of Vintage Indian Toys
The need for education about our traditional indian toys is imperative for the younger generations to foster curiosity and liking for culture, old toys in india are now only found in few shops across the country, these vintage toys can be preserved by allowing the younger generation to learn more about them through online workshops, attending local fairs and buying these indian toys for babies as a gift to promote traditional crafts.
These old fashioned toys will only be revived with proper exposure to these crafts.
Indian brand selling Indian Retro Toys:
The Khoj
Khojcrafts is an Indian brand based out of Gurgaon, with 20 years of expertise, with a passion for sustainability, craftsmanship, and timeless craftsmanship. Here's what sets them apart
- Craftsmanship at the Core: Each antique toy design is crafted inspired by the forgotten crafts of Indian toys, reviving traditions and offering sustainability solutions. These old fashioned toys are made in smaller batches to ensure the craft is uncompromised.
- Global Reach, Local Roots: From New York to Dubai, their handcrafted Indian toys have found homes around the world, while staying rooted to the culture of India.
- Sustainability in Design: Sustainability isn't just a trend for them, they honor India's architectural and craft legacy by preserving and reimagining age-old materials into contemporary forms.
- Urban Aesthetic, Modern Appeal: Khoj crafts is reshaping perceptions by infusing traditional crafts with a modern, urban sensibility, bringing heritage into the 21st century.
They work with many crafts and artisans specialising in Indian toy crafts, thereby helping them market their craft, provide employment, fair-pay and support them in design improvements.
Varnam Craft Collective:
Established in 2012, Varnam Craft Collective is an indian toy brand that stands as a distinguished social enterprise, garnering numerous awards for its commendable work with artisans in Channapatna. Drawing from a rich legacy of toy-making craftsmanship spanning two centuries, Arnam Craft Collective has seamlessly integrated this tradition into contemporary home and lifestyle products. Their diverse range includes lighting solutions, kitchen, dining, and bar accessories, kids' room décor and toys, as well as jewelry.
The Elefant
This indian toy brand offers a sustainable toy rental service with many toys to choose from. Customers can subscribe to rent toys and easily swap them for others without hassle – The Elefant handles the pickup. They are an eco-friendly alternative to buying toys, making it easy to keep the little ones entertained. These toys are pre-used and not necessarily sustainable.
Shumee
Shumee is an indian toy brand that specialises in scientifically designed toys inspired by NAEYC and the Reggio Emilia philosophy. Their products address specific needs by observing children's natural play habits. With a focus on safety and sustainability, Shumee crafts toys from natural materials like wood and cotton, free from batteries and plastics. They prioritize child safety and employ water-based paints and beeswax polish. Each toy is designed in-house and handcrafted by local artisans, contributing to India's skilled craftsmanship.
Channapatna Toys
With a focus on quality and sustainability, this Indian toy store is known for their handcrafted toys offer a unique and meaningful shopping experience, connecting customers with the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka, India. Each toy is skillfully crafted by experienced artisans, ensuring safety and durability. Located in Channapatna, known for its traditional indian toys online, their brand brings joy to homes worldwide.
Conclusion
Indian toys have a rich heritage dating back 5000 years. From antique toys inspired by Harappan civilization to modern innovations, Indian toys continue to captivate both children and collectors alike. Demand for toys based on Indian mythological characters, the Indian toy industry is expanding its global presence and renowned Indian toy brands like Khoj Crafts are reshaping perceptions and supporting the growth by promoting traditional Indian crafts, offering sustainable and aiding small scale artisans.
Which are a few famous Indian Handcrafted Toys?
Some of India's renowned craft toys include Channapatna Toys, known for eco-friendly wooden craftsmanship from Karnataka, and Kondapalli Toys, vibrant handcrafted wooden toys from Andhra Pradesh. Terracotta toys from West Bengal, moulded from clay narrate tales of past and sometimes have Vastu Shastru significance. Madhubani Toys are intricately hand painted toys from Bihar. Warli Toys, inspired by Maharashtra's tribal art feature geometric patterns. Each toy reflects India's rich cultural diversity and skilled craftsmanship.
Are Indian toys eco-friendly?
Many Indian toys, especially traditional and retro indian toys, focus only on using eco-friendly materials like wood, clay, and cloth, as these were the only resources available decades ago, to make toys. Channapatna Toys from Karnataka, for instance, are renowned for their eco-friendly wooden craftsmanship. Similarly, Kondapalli Toys from Andhra Pradesh use non-toxic colours on sustainable wood. These toys not only promote environmental sustainability but also contribute to preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Are Indian craft toys safe for children?
Yes, Indian craft toys are generally safe for children. They are often made from non-toxic materials such as natural wood and organic dyes, ensuring that they meet safety standards. Additionally, many artisans prioritize the use of child-safe paints and finishes, making these toys suitable for kids.
What is the most popular type of Indian toy?
One of the most popular types of handmade traditional Indian toys is the traditional wooden toy. These toys are handcrafted from various types of wood, often from the waste and feature vibrant colors and intricate designs. The common examples of these vintage toys animal figurines, fidget toys and spinning tops. Wooden toys are cherished mainly for their durability and eco-friendliness and has been an integral part of indian toys for babies
Which toy was first made in India?
One of the earliest known Indian toys made is the "Lattu" or spinning top. It is one of the old toys of India, these spinning tops have been enjoyed by children for centuries. They are typically made from wood or metal and are spun by winding a string around them and then pulling it rapidly to set them in motion. Lattu remains a popular traditional indian toy, they are colorful and known for developing a baby's eidetic memory.
Which Toy brand is best in India?
The Khoj is an Indian toy store, selling online, and offline, traditional indian toys since 20 years and has been loved globally too for their quality, designs and most importantly for reviving age old indian toy crafts, that are forgotten. Their business is fundamentally strong and their word of mouth has spread rapidly making them Indian most trusted Indian toy brand.