Khel: Toys from India
1 July – 2 September 2006

This playful exhibition looks at the world of toys from across India and includes the playthings of Indian children from both past and present.

There is a strong tradition in India, which still exists, of making toys by hand using the natural resources available locally. Toys are also made from recycled materials such as paper, plastic, wool and even old videotape. A section includes objects and toys made by some of India’s poorest children, the street-dwellers of New Delhi.

Colourful and intricate puppets used in traditional Indian entertainment are also on show alongside objects such as clay dancing dolls, miniature glass animals and brass figures which represent toys made for ornamentation. Paper kites, mobiles and lanterns hang above a selection of Madhubani and folk story paintings, kantha embroideries and appliqué work.

A dedicated section for families includes a toy chest with books and toys to play with.

Khel: Toys from India is a touring exhibition created by the V&A Museum of Childhood, London in collaboration with Shisha.