Varanasi, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in northern India, sits at the heart of the Ganges Valley. It is one of India's oldest continually inhabited cities and has long been a renowned center for Aryan philosophy, commerce, and industry. Historically, Varanasi has been famous for its fine silk and muslin fabrics, ivory works, perfumes, sculptures, and particularly its wooden toys - an art form with a deep heritage.

The tradition of wooden toy-making in Varanasi dates back to the period after the ban on ivory carving. Many of the craftsmen's ancestors were royal ivory carvers, and their expertise was passed down through generations. Notably, it is said that the toys of Lord Rama originated in Kashi (Varanasi), crafted from a special type of wood. These toys are in high demand abroad, as the natural paints used on them are non-toxic and safe for children, even if they put the toys in their mouths.

The process of creating these toys involves meticulous techniques, such as cutting, peeling, and shaping the wood with sharp tools like knives. The range of wooden toys includes spherical, cylindrical, and diametrical shapes, as well as traditional religious items such as figures of gods and goddesses, animals, birds, pen stands, and decorative boxes. The craft continues to be a cherished tradition, reflecting both artistic skill and cultural significance.

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