Kondapalli springs to life!

Toys festival begins, showcasing four-century-old craft heritage

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The historic Kondapalli region, known for its royal legacy and centuries-old wooden toy craftsmanship, witnessed a cultural milestone as the Kondapalli Toys Festival began today near the foothills of the Kondapalli Fort. Organised jointly by the NTR district administration and the Tourism Department to mark World Heritage Day, the three-day festival brought to life a rich artistic tradition that has thrived for over four centuries.

More than just a celebration, the festival has been envisioned as a platform to revive and showcase the legacy of Kondapalli toys to the present generation while preserving it for the future. Officials stated that special programmes have been curated to strengthen the “Kondapalli” brand and ensure wider recognition across the state and beyond.

The festival commenced with a heritage trekking event at the Kondapalli Fort, allowing visitors to explore historical sites and understand their cultural significance. This was followed by a series of wellness and community activities, including a mini marathon, cycling events, and yoga sessions, drawing enthusiastic participation from locals and visitors alike.

Evening sessions featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional games, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and classical musical ensembles such as sannayi melam. Artists from across the district participated, adding colour and diversity to the celebrations.

In the lead-up to the festival, the Tourism Department had conducted an AI-based digital competition on Kondapalli toys, which gained traction on social media. Winners of the competition are set to receive prizes worth Rs 1 lakh, while dedicated exhibition spaces have been created to display intricate handcrafted works by local artisans.

District Collector Lakshmisha stated, “We encouraged local communities to actively participate in this festival. With the support of organisations like INTACH, Red Cross, Vasavya Mahila Mandali, Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, and Kondapalli Arts and Crafts Society, the event is being conducted successfully.”

The festival is expected to serve as a significant step towards revitalising Kondapalli’s traditional crafts and reinforcing its cultural identity, turning it into a vibrant symbol of heritage and pride.