Timeless toys at Kajva
We hear a lot from our grandparents about how modern toys have changed since their days. Aaj kal ke khilonon mein ab voh baat nahi rahi. Kajva’s bestsellers are their range of traditional wooden toys from our grandparents’ generations. Here one can find traditional wooden toys in Pune like lattoos, yo-yos, teether, brain-teasing puzzles, and more. These are bound to take customers back to their childhood days. Inspired by traditional Indian toy designs that have been in our culture for generations, these toys are synonymous with foolproof designs. You are guaranteed to find toys from your grandparents’ generations here.
According to the founder, these toys, which have been present since our ancestors, have, for generations, helped in the development of panchkosh. Panchkosh refers to the five layers our bodies are made up of. These include the physical layer, energy layer, mental layer, intellectual layer, and finally our soul. Many of these wooden toys are stimulating for children and encourage physical activity. These toys help connect children to their cultural roots and are also loved by parents as home decor. These toys are made by skilled artisans and are a perfect fusion of modern and traditional designs.
Kajva’s story
“Kajva is a Marathi word meaning firefly; it stands as a symbolic representation of something that ignites from within,” says Shailesh Badgujar with a humble smile. Kajva opened its doors in 2019, and its conception is rooted in the belief that in every individual resides a god-given gift or skill, which is the essence of who they really are. If this skill is honed, then the product of that skill can make every individual shine brightly from within. Moreover, this beautiful thought also emphasises that when one works with their “god-given skill,” they can obtain mental, physical, social, or financial wealth. This meaningful thought reminds us to acknowledge the talents we leave behind when we think they might not earn us the most money.
With this thought, Shailesh decided to shine the spotlight on Indian artisans. Moreover, he curated a shop for artisans who followed their god-given gift of handmade artefacts. Kajva provides a platform for artisans who craft handmade products. Kajva also helps them identify market trends and tailor their products accordingly. Additionally, Kajva not only provides a way to introduce the work of these skilled artisans to customers but also helps bring in new products like a wooden baby walker (something you can look out for).
The artisans behind Kajva
Currently, Kajva connects skilled handmade wood artisans from Karnataka, handmade paper, and terracotta artisans from Pune and Gujarat to Punekars. Kajva sells wooden toys, notebooks made with jute, cotton, and handmade paper, terracotta artefacts, and more. Their terracotta pots come in various miniature sizes for safe transportation and display. Their notebooks are a testament to true craftsmanship, as they are made with intricate designs and incredible detail by families of artisans in their homes in Pune.
These products are beautiful finds for one’s home and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones. You can find these mesmerising products on their website, in exhibitions, or simply spend hours in their charming store (like I did!). Kajva is where impeccable craftsmanship meets innovation. One can simply relive their beloved childhood days here or pass them down to their children. These toys are more than what they seem; they are a beautiful result of the craft of an artisan that reflects his or her true self. Shailesh, the founder of Kajva, while pointing at his own creations in the shop, says, “Everyone is Kajva.”.
To read more about handmade goods in Pune, click here.
To discover these timeless and traditional wooden toys in Pune,
Contact: 077986 33344
