What is etikoppaka?

Etikoppaka is a small village located in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is known for its unique wooden handcrafted toys, utensils, and decorative items, which are made using traditional techniques that have been passed down over generations. Etikoppaka toys are made from an ivory-colored lightweight wood, known as 'Ankudu tree' or 'Wrightia Tinctoria', which is first treated with a mixture of oils and seeds to enhance its durability and natural shine. The artisans of Etikoppaka also use natural dyes made from seeds, roots, and bark to give their creations vibrant colors. The craft of Etikoppaka is also recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) and is exported all over the world, garnering recognition for the skilled artisans and preserving their traditional craft.