Wooden Toys

Mad Momma writes a wonderful article about wooden toys from
India. I miss them. I go to Toys r us and come out with nothing,
because all of it looks so completely branded and unimaginative. I grew
up with hand made one of a kind toys, like a colorful ferris wheel, Katputlis made on hand painted wood and dressed up in beautiful bandini ghagris. Paper Mache animals and hand held drums that had a crackling sound.

We also used to find pleasure with cardboard, plastic,
tablecloths and anything that was used commonly in the house. I am
still trying to find Mira a doll that I like, but the last time I went
to American doll house, I felt so oppressed I came out and promised
that I would never go in their for a very long time. Here is more from Mad Momma.

A great source of well written bilingual books from India is Tullika Publishers and Katha books produces beautifully crafted books, incorporating elements of Gond Painting, Kalamkari and Worli figures.