Zankla Studio's Sustainable Heritage Dolls Tell The Stories Of Assam’s Bodo Community

Zankla Studio, a social enterprise nestled in the heart of Hazuma, Assam, is making waves with its exquisite range of heritage soft toys. These toys are not just playthings; they are carefully crafted pieces of art that tell stories deeply rooted in the local culture and traditions of the Bodo community, who are the region's earliest settlers and the largest ethnolinguistic group in Assam. Each toy carries a purpose and a narrative, captivating the imagination of children and adults alike.

The mastermind behind Zankla Studio, Kirat Brahma, believes that toys should do more than entertain. They should educate, inspire empathy, and connect individuals with their heritage. With this philosophy in mind, Brahma and his team handcraft dolls, birds, animals, and even souvenir pieces, all infused with captivating stories. For example, their rhino toy portrays the struggle of the magnificent creature as it navigates human habitation during floods, evoking both empathy and understanding from its young owners.

What truly sets Zankla Studio apart is its unwavering commitment to local craftsmanship and heritage. Their toys are meticulously crafted using standard fiber for their soft bodies and locally sourced fabrics for clothing. In their pursuit of sustainability, Brahma and his team are also exploring organic alternatives for the raw materials they use, ensuring that their creations are not only visually stunning but also environmentally friendly.

Zankla Studio's dolls are based on real historical figures as well as fictional characters that represent the Bodo community and their dreams and aspirations. They accompany each toy with a pamphlet, recognizing the boundless creativity of children and their love for stories. These pamphlets further immerse young minds in the heritage of the dolls, creating a truly enriching experience that extends beyond the iconography and mere visual representation of the region, and taps all the way into the spirit of the community.

Zankla Studio aspires to be more than just a brand; it aims to be a symbol of culture and creativity, that promotes social and environmental sustainability. Through their exceptional craftsmanship and captivating storytelling, Zankla Studio's heritage soft toys transcend ordinary playthings, and become cherished treasures that connect generations and keep traditions alive.

You can follow Zankla Studio here and get the dolls on their website here.

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