Channapatna Toys 2.0: Tradition Meets Technology to Take Karnataka’s Iconic Toys Global
Stakeholders Join Hands to Modernise Toy-Making, Empower Artisans and Create New Global Markets
ಚನ್ನಪಟ್ಟಣದ ಆಟಿಕೆಗಳಿಗೆ ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನದ ಸ್ಪರ್ಶ: ಜಾಗತಿಕ ಮಾರುಕಟ್ಟೆಯತ್ತ ‘ಚನ್ನಪಟ್ಟಣ ಟಾಯ್ಸ್ 2.0’ ಹೆಜ್ಜೆ
Ramanagara: A collaborative initiative to modernise Karnataka’s iconic Channapatna toy industry through technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and global market opportunities has taken its first step with a stakeholder meeting at Government Engineering College, Ramanagara.
The meeting, chaired by Dr. Vasanth G., Principal of the college, brought together members of the Channapatna Toy Artisan Association, toy artisans, engineering faculty, technology experts, management academics and research scholars. The initiative was also envisioned by Dr. G. Pundarika, former Principal and currently Additional Director, Department of Technical Education.
Technology to strengthen a traditional craft
Titled “Channapatna Toys 2.0: Tradition, Technology, Innovation and Globalisation,” the initiative proposes using the K-Tech Innovation LEAP Lab at Government Engineering College as a platform for product innovation, prototyping and technology-enabled manufacturing. Dr. Gnanamurthy B.P., Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the LEAP K-Tech Lab, participated in the discussions.
The initiative is being envisioned by Rtn. Jayachandra Aradhya, CEO of Silicon Microsystems, Bengaluru, who brings more than three decades of experience in technology and product design. He has helped identify technology requirements and develop the proposal to modernise Channapatna toys and expand their global market potential. Silicon Microsystems has developed more than 200 electronics products in VLSI, embedded systems, automation and robotics for the education sector and conducted over 300 technology workshops, training more than 20,000 students and faculty members.
The proposed model will combine mechanics, electronics, embedded systems, robotics, gamification and STEM education with traditional wooden toys, while retaining the skills and craftsmanship of local artisans.
Artisans at the centre of the transformation
Rotary International District 3191, with District Governor Rtn. Anil Gupta and District Director-Vocational Services Rtn. Anand Ramachandra, will explore community development, skill development, resource mobilisation and national and international networking opportunities.
Dr. Anitha N. of the MBA Department, Surana College of Management, Kengeri, led the management discussions. Faculty, research scholars and students will contribute to customer research, market analysis, branding, pricing, business models, entrepreneurship and export strategies.
The Channapatna Toy Artisan Association and its artisans will remain central to the initiative, ensuring that innovation translates into sustainable livelihoods and better business opportunities.
The stakeholders envision Channapatna emerging as a global hub for heritage-based innovation, creative manufacturing, STEM toys and artisan entrepreneurship.
