Kondapalli Bommalu are crafted from soft Tella Poniki wood found in Kondapalli Hills. Parts are carved separately, joined with makku paste (tamarind seed powder & sawdust), and decorated with oil/water-colors or vegetable dyes/enamel paints. Artisans create mythology, animal, bird, and rural life figures, like Dasavataram and dancing dolls.
Kondapalli dolls, also known as Kondapalli Bommalu, are traditional Indian toys made in the village of Kondapalli in Andhra Pradesh, India. These dolls are crafted from softwood known as Tella Poniki, which is lightweight and easy to carve. The process of making Kondapalli dolls is intricate and time-consuming, involving several steps.
First, the wood is carefully carved into the desired shape using basic tools like chisels and knives. Then, the doll is painted using bright, vibrant colors, often depicting traditional themes and characters from Indian mythology and folklore.
Artists pay meticulous attention to detail, adding intricate designs and patterns to enhance the doll's beauty. Finally, the doll is finished with a coat of lacquer to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish.
The making of Kondapalli dolls is a labor of love, requiring skill, patience, and creativity. Each doll is a unique piece of art, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of India.