“The specialty of these Nirmal toys lies in their nature-driven designs. We craft our toys based on the flora and fauna of the state. We use poniki chekka (white sander wood).

My journey into making handcrafted toys began at an early age. I have learned the basics of this craft by watching my grandfather and father craft the toys.

We are known for handmade toys and paintings which are quite popular across the country. But you should know, getting a hang of it for a newcomer will be difficult. Say, you want to practice it now, it’s difficult. You have to live with this art right from birth.

It’s becoming highly difficult to source the material anymore and our sales have dropped over the years. I wished my children could continue this craft as this is an ancestral property for us, but considering the current state of affairs, I don’t think they will continue this art form. As long as we get the wood, we will continue. Once the supply stops, we should stop and do something else for a living.”