Hyderabad: Amid concerns surrounding the purity of the iconic Tirupati laddu, artisans at the base of Tirumala are preparing to seek a geographical indication tag for their intricate wooden statues, which have brought Lord Balaji and other deities to life for more than a century. The Madhavamala wood carvings are renowned for their detailed depictions of gods and goddesses, including Kalyana Balaji, Raja and Rani dolls, children's toys, ornate floral carvings on doors and windows, pooja mandapams, wooden pillars, and furniture. The Sri Balaji Wood Carvings Mutually Aided Cooperative Society Limited, representing 510 artisans from 309 families specializing in Madhavamala wood carvings, will soon submit an application for a GI tag with the assistance of NABARD as the facilitation agency. This application will mark the 20th GI filing from AP, as confirmed by GI expert Subhajit Saha, who will be supporting the artisans in securing the tag alongside NABARD.