Labubu, a Chinese vinyl collectible with its big eyes and cheeky smile, a very distinct, memorable look, has recently taken the internet by storm. The hype is so intense that buyers eagerly snap them up without even knowing which version they’ll get, all thanks to the surprise blind box packaging.
But one has to wonder: is Labubu truly worth the craze, or is it just another internet-fueled trend?
When it comes to artistry and cultural depth, India’s traditional dolls offer far more beauty, creativity, and meaning, waiting to be rediscovered by the world.
From the wooden figurines of Karnataka to the clay dolls of West Bengal, India has an unmatched legacy of handcrafted dolls. These are not just toys, but cultural artifacts that showcase the deep roots of the country, miniature storytellers of hard work behind the making, and works of art that carry generations of identity and emotion.
Here are some iconic Indian doll styles that can easily rival the charm and collectible appeal of global hits like Labubu:
1. Channapatna Dolls (Karnataka)
- Channapatna is referred to as the ‘Toy Town’ of Karnataka
- The Channapatna dolls are known for their bright colors, minimalistic expressions, and durability
- Made from soft ivory wood and lacquered in natural, non-toxic dyes, which make these dolls safe for children
- The craft is a protected Geographical Indication (GI) under the World Trade Organization
Today, Channapatna artisans are reimagining these dolls with modern aesthetics while retaining their traditional roots.
2. Thanjavur Bommai (Tamil Nadu)
- Thanjavur Bommai, also known as “roly-poly”, bobble head, or Tanjore dancing dolls, were trendsetters long before the word “trend” even existed
- Their weighted bottom makes them bob and sway gracefully, symbolizing balance
- Made of clay and traditionally dressed in vibrant outfits, often featuring intricate embroidery and beadwork
- Hand-painted with gold leaf and sometimes adorned with precious stones for an elegant, regal finish
- These dolls are often gifted during weddings or festivals for good luck and prosperity.
3. Kathputlis (Rajasthan)
- Traditional string puppets made of wood and cloth are used in folk storytelling
- Richly adorned with sequins, vibrant fabrics, and hand-painted features
- They embody centuries of oral tradition and performance art
- Typically depict kings, queens, jesters, and mythological characters
4. Clay Dolls of Krishnanagar (West Bengal)
- These dolls are museum-worthy, often collected by art lovers globally
- Intricately crafted and hand-painted to depict everyday life, gods, and social characters
- Famous for their lifelike detail, everything from a fish seller to mythological figures
- These clay dolls reflect the region’s artistic finesse and cultural storytelling
- Skilled artisans craft each piece, often passed down through generations, preserving traditional sculpting techniques
5. Kondapalli Toys (Andhra Pradesh)
- Made from a soft wood called Tella Poniki, native to the Kondapalli region
- Painted with natural vegetable dyes and vibrant hues
- Themes range from village scenes, traditional occupations, to mythological figures
- Lightweight, eco-friendly, and known for their folk charm and storytelling appeal
- Recognized as a GI-tagged craft under India’s heritage arts
Why Indian Dolls Stand Out from the Labubu?
Unlike mass-manufactured collectibles like Labubu, Indian dolls are rooted in regional art forms and handcrafted by artisans using age-old techniques. Each doll is a reflection of mythology, social life, festivals, and folklore.
| Element | Labubu | Indian Traditional Dolls |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic Appeal | Quirky, limited-edition vinyl | Handcrafted, detailed, region-specific |
| Cultural Value | Minimal, modern symbolism | Deeply rooted in Indian tradition |
| Storytelling | Implied fantasy backstory | Rich with folklore, mythology, history |
| Craftsmanship | Factory-produced | Artisan-made, often one-of-a-kind |
| Market Potential | Collectibles, fandom-driven | Heritage meets modern decor |
What’s Needed: A Revival with a Modern Lens
To truly stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global collectibles:
- Support artisans with branding, packaging, and digital outreach
- Collaborate with artists and designers to modernize traditional dolls
- Use storytelling via videos, festivals, and exhibitions to boost global appeal
Labubu might be stealing the spotlight right now, but India’s traditional dolls carry something deeper: legacy, emotion, and a soul you can feel. With the right support, they’re not just ready to stand alongside global collectibles, they’re all set to spark a cultural revival of their own.
Read More: How Labubu Dolls Became the World’s Most Adorable (and Addictive) Collectible
