Kinnal Art: The Wooden Wonder of Karnataka
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...