In Hyderabad, artisans residing at the foothills of Tirumala who have been creating intricately carved wooden statues of Lord Balaji and other deities for over a century are preparing to apply for a geographical indication tag. These artisans are known for their Madhavamala wood carvings, which feature lifelike idols of gods and goddesses, as well as other decorative items like dolls, toys, doors, windows, and furniture adorned with intricate floral designs. The Sri Balaji Wood Carvings Mutually Aided Cooperative Society Limited, represented by 510 artisans from 309 families, will submit the GI application with the help of NABARD this month. This will mark the 20th GI application from Andhra Pradesh, with GI practitioner Subhajit Saha assisting the artisans in the process.