GI Status: Kinnal craft has been granted Geographical Indication (GI) protection.
🏛️ Historical Background
Kinnal was historically a flourishing centre of wood carving.
The Pampapateshwara Temple mural paintings and intricate wooden chariot work at Hampi are traditionally attributed to ancestors of present-day Kinnal artisans, according to the source.
2007: University of Glasgow and Glasgow School of Art collaborated with the Crafts Council of Karnataka and local students/craftsmen to help revive the craft.
🎨 Manufacturing Method
Artisans are known as Chitragara.
Lightweight wood is used for making toys.
Tamarind seed + pebble paste is used for joining parts.
Kitta: Made from:
Jute rags
Sawdust
Tamarind seed paste
A pebble-powder paste mixed with liquid gum is used to create embossed ornaments and jewellery.
After assembling the figure:
Kitta is applied over the figure.
Small pieces of cotton are attached using tamarind paste.
Pebble paste is applied to create the base for painting.
The figure is then painted.
⭐ Exam Quick Revision
Kinnal Craft → Koppal district, Karnataka
Alternative name → Kinhal Craft
Main material → Wood
Famous for → Toys & religious idols
Artisans → Chitragara
Joining paste → Tamarind seed + pebble paste
Kitta → Jute + sawdust + tamarind seed paste
Embossing → Pebble powder paste + liquid gum
GI status → Protected
Revival project → 2007
Revival collaboration → University of Glasgow + Glasgow School of Art + Crafts Council of Karnataka