The journey of making Bommalu begins with sourcing the wood of “Tella Ponki” (a tree native to the forests of Kondapalli and Gangineni in Krishna District). This wood, considered a gift of nature, is found exclusively in this geographical area. Apart from the wood, vibrant hues obtained from natural dyes and colours also play a vital role in this craft . These dyes and colours are prepared from locally available material being extracts of plants like karakkai, moduga, etc.

The use of all these natural resources in close proximity to the region showcases the love for nature of Kondapalli artisans. These natural materials not only contribute to the toys’ vivid appearance but also preserve an eco-friendly approach to craftsmanship. Kondapalli toys come in a variety of sizes and forms, depicting themes from everyday village life to spiritual and mythological stories. The main categories include animals and birds, male and female figures representing rural life, and mythological characters. The famous forms of Kondapalli toys are ambari (the royal carriage placed on an elephant) and the Dashaavataralu (idols representing the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu).

Culturally, Kondapalli Bommalu is the centerpiece of the Bommala Koluvu, a festive doll arrangement displayed in South Indian homes during celebrations like Sankranti and Navaratri/Dasara. In modern times, these toys have found new relevance as home décor pieces and are cherished as premium return gifts for weddings and traditional ceremonies, ensuring the legacy of this craft continues to thrive.