Mysuru:   Manipur is a land of toys and dolls where cane and bamboo are abundantly available. They are extensively used for making furniture, basketry etc., but the crafty people of Manipur do not let these leftover pieces go a waste. They make dolls and toys out of them.

The resemblance of Manipur dolls to famous characters of mythology and history are impeccable. The very concept of doll-making took birth in India for different reasons just like in any other country, the prime one being the religious angle. It started with the making of images of deities by artisans with devotion. The tradition continues even today as many artisans earn their brand for entire year during festive occasions.

Another impetus behind doll craft is credited to rich people or rulers who get their own replicas made, expecting others to worship, which is again a semi-religious and semi-social factor in a feudal society.

The third reason is of course the dolls being made as toys for children to play with, of various designs and colour that attract them. Certain dolls are used as part of educational programmes too.

Under the making process, thin bamboo or grass straws with natural fibre is given shapes followed by covering of prepared papier-mâché, later decorated by local available colours, clothes and artificial jewellery. Block printing is also famous in Manipur which is mainly done on their clothes with different designs.

Keeping this in mind, Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, Southern Regional Centre (IGRMS-SRC), Mysuru, will be holding an Education Programme under “Do & Learn” series on Doll-making of Manipur and Block Printing from May 16 to 24 at Wellington House on Irwin Road in city.

The well-known doll-making artists O. Nilakamal Singh and Tulachandra Singh and Block Printing artists Nobi Singh and Jotinkumar Singh from Manipur will impart training to participants.

Raw material cost will have to be borne by the participants. The individually prepared items will issued to the participants after the training programme. Each participant will be given certificate of appreciation.

Those interested in learning the art may contact J. Vijay Mohan, Officer-In-Charge, IGRMS, SRC, Wellington House, Irwin Road, Mysuru or over  Ph: 0821-2448231.