Namma Choice - Cultural Market

Kinnal Art, also known as Kinhal Craft, is a centuries-old traditional art form from Kinhal village in Koppal district, Karnataka. Known for its vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and religious significance, this unique wooden craft represents the rich artistic heritage of South India. --- 🧱 Origin and History Kinnal Art dates back to the Vijayanagara Empire (14th–17th century), flourishing under royal patronage. It was primarily used to decorate temples, chariots (rathas), and religious idols. Artisans known as 'Chitragars' or 'Bammavalis' passed the skills through generations, keeping the sacred tradition alive. --- 🪵 What Makes Kinnal Art Unique? Base Material: Made from a mixture of wooden powder (sawdust), tamarind seed paste, and water, shaped on lightweight wooden frames. Color Scheme: Bright primary colors like red, green, yellow, and blue are used, traditionally made from natural pigments. Motifs: Mainly mythological figures, temple idols, religi...

🪶 What Are Kolhapuri Chappals? Kolhapuri Chappals are handcrafted leather sandals originating from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, known for their intricate design, long-lasting quality, and deep cultural roots. Made using vegetable-tanned leather, and crafted entirely by hand—without nails or machines—these chappals are symbols of Indian rural artistry and heritage. --- 🛕 When & How It Was Created The roots of Kolhapuri Chappals trace back to the 12th century, during the reign of King Bijjala of Bidar and his visionary minister Basavanna, who encouraged artisanal work and supported the leather-working community. The craft gained wide recognition in the early 20th century, especially under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the ruler of Kolhapur, who promoted local artisans and helped establish the chappal’s cultural and economic value. --- 📍 Where Are They Made? Kolhapuri Chappals are traditionally made in: Maharashtra: Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur Karnataka: Belgaum, Bagalkot,...

  Tanjore Painting: A Timeless Treasure | Namma Choice Tanjore Painting: A Timeless Treasure of South India 🎨 Origin & History Tanjore painting, also spelled Thanjavur painting, is a classical South Indian art form that originated in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu , during the late 16th century. It emerged during the rule of the Nayaka dynasty , and flourished under the Marathas , especially under King Serfoji II. 📜 Historical Timeline Pre-16th Century: Roots in Chola temple murals Late 1500s: Formalized under Nayaka rule 1700s–1800s: Enhanced under Maratha kings Post-Independence: Popularized as decorative devotional art 🖌️ Artistic Features Base Material: Jackfruit or teak wood planks (Palagai Padam) Techniques: Gesso relief work + 22K gold leaf Colors: Rich red, blue, green, and gold tones Subjects: Krishna, Lakshmi, Shiva, Ganesha, saints Style: Central deity, arches, lamps, mythi...

🎎 Where Craft Meets Culture Nestled in the vibrant town of Channapatna in Karnataka, these colorful wooden toys are more than just playthings — they are a symbol of India’s rich craftsmanship, eco-conscious design, and timeless heritage. Recognized globally for their aesthetic beauty and traditional value, Channapatna toys hold a Geographical Indication (GI) tag , protecting their unique identity and craftsmanship. 🪵 A Glimpse into History: When and How It Started The origins of Channapatna toys trace back to the 18th century , during the reign of Tipu Sultan , the ruler of Mysore. Tipu Sultan, impressed by Persian wooden art, invited skilled artisans from Persia to train local craftsmen in lacquerware techniques . This led to the birth of a new craft — a blend of Persian technique and Indian creativity — now famously known as Channapatna toys. 👨‍🎨 The Inventors: Legacy of the Craft Community While the art form was introduced during Tipu Sultan's time, it was the local ...

  India’s rich cultural heritage is beautifully represented through its handcrafted traditional toys , many of which have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags for their authenticity and craftsmanship. These toys are not just playthings but also expressions of India’s artistic legacy , promoting sustainability and empowering skilled artisans. The Importance of GI-Tagged Toys: Cultural Significance: Each toy carries the essence of the region’s folklore and traditions. Sustainable Craftsmanship: Most toys are handcrafted using eco-friendly, biodegradable materials . Support for Local Artisans: Buying these toys sustains indigenous art forms and rural craftsmanship. Guaranteed Authenticity: The GI tag ensures originality, quality, and historical significance . Popular GI-Tagged Toys of India: Channapatna Toys (Karnataka): Known as ‘Gombegala Ooru’ or Toy Town of Karnataka , these vibrant wooden toys are crafted using traditional lacquer techniques and natural dyes. Kondapal...

 Madhubani Painting, a centuries-old folk art form from the Mithila region of Bihar, is known for its intricate designs, vibrant colors, and deep cultural symbolism. Traditionally done by women on walls and floors of homes, this art has evolved onto paper, canvas, and fabric, gaining worldwide recognition. Madhubani painting holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag , preserving its authenticity and heritage. History and Origins of Madhubani Painting: This art form dates back to ancient times and is believed to have originated during the era of the Ramayana. According to legend, King Janaka of Mithila commissioned artists to decorate the palace walls for his daughter Sita’s wedding to Lord Rama. Over time, the tradition was passed down through generations, reflecting cultural stories, myths, and nature-inspired themes. Styles and Techniques of Madhubani Painting: Madhubani paintings are characterized by their intricate linework, vibrant colors, and geometric patterns . There are fiv...

 Blue Pottery is one of India's most exquisite and delicate craft traditions, known for its stunning blue and white floral motifs. Originating from Persia and later flourishing in Jaipur, Rajasthan, this art form stands out for its unique non-clay ceramic composition and intricate hand-painted designs. Today, Blue Pottery holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag , safeguarding its authenticity and heritage. The Origins and Evolution of Blue Pottery: Blue Pottery traces its roots to Persian and Mughal influences , introduced to India by Rajput rulers in the 17th century. The craft flourished in Jaipur under the patronage of Sawai Ram Singh II, who encouraged local artisans to adopt and innovate the technique. Unlike conventional earthenware, Blue Pottery is made using quartz, glass, and gum , giving it a distinct translucent appeal. The Unique Crafting Process of Blue Pottery: Blue Pottery is crafted through an elaborate process that requires patience and precision: Material Prepara...

 Pochampally Ikat is a testament to India's rich textile heritage, known for its mesmerizing geometric patterns and intricate dyeing techniques. Woven in the small town of Pochampally, Telangana, this traditional craft is revered for its unique design process, where patterns are dyed onto threads before weaving. With a history deeply rooted in handloom artistry, Pochampally Ikat holds a prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, preserving its authenticity and cultural value. The Origin and Legacy of Pochampally Ikat: Pochampally Ikat has been woven for centuries by skilled artisans who have passed down their techniques through generations. The craft is believed to have originated over a thousand years ago, blending influences from Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Gujarat. Today, Pochampally is recognized as the 'Silk City of India' due to its exquisite silk and cotton Ikat fabrics. The Unique Ikat Weaving Technique: What makes Pochampally Ikat extraordinary is its resist-dye...

 Kashmir Pashmina is not just a fabric; it is an emblem of elegance, heritage, and craftsmanship that dates back centuries. Handwoven with precision and artistry, this luxurious woolen fabric is cherished worldwide for its softness, warmth, and intricate designs. The legacy of Pashmina weaving is deeply rooted in the culture of Kashmir, making it one of India’s most treasured handicrafts. The Origin of Kashmir Pashmina: The word ‘Pashmina’ is derived from the Persian word ‘Pashm’ , meaning soft gold. Pashmina wool comes from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat, a breed native to the high-altitude regions of Ladakh. The harsh winter climate of these regions results in an incredibly fine and warm wool, which is then meticulously handwoven into exquisite shawls, scarves, and stoles by skilled artisans in Kashmir. The Craftsmanship Behind Pashmina: The making of a Pashmina shawl is an elaborate process that requires expert craftsmanship. The wool is hand-spun, woven on traditional wo...