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India has a long and rich history of traditional indoor board games that are still enjoyed by people of all ages today. These games are not only a fun way to pass the time, but they also serve as a cultural link to the country’s past and provide an opportunity for people to come together and socialize. In this article, we will take a closer look at three of the most popular traditional indoor games in India: Pagade, Chowkabara, and Alugulimane.
Pagade: Pagade is an ancient game that has been played in India for centuries and is often mentioned in the Mahabharata, an epic Sanskrit poem that tells the story of the Kuru dynasty. One well-known story about pagade is the tale of Shakuni playing dice with Yudhisthira. There are also other stories about pagade, such as those about Shri Krishna and Satyabhama, Shiva and Parvathi, and many others. In addition, ancient Indian temple carvings often depict people playing the game.
Pagade is a combination of luck and strategy, and is typically played on a fabric mat with cowrie shells or long wooden dices. Some people believe that the use of cowrie shells or long wooden dices adds an element of mystique to the game, as they were once used as a form of currency in India. To win at pagade, players must use strategic placement of their pieces and careful playing, as well as a bit of luck. The game is filled with chaos and laughter, and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Chowkabara: Chowkabara is another popular traditional indoor game in India that is simpler to play than pagade. It is a combination of luck and strategy, and is usually played with cowrie shells or long dices. The game is played on a board, and has unique rules and conditions that make it interesting and engaging. Chowkabara is a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and spend some quality time with friends and family.
Some older people believe that pagade should be taken more seriously, while chowkabara is a more relaxed and casual game. However, both games are enjoyed by people of all ages and are a great way to bring people together and socialize.
Alugulimane: Alugulimane is a popular game in South India that is rarely found in the North and East of the country. It is a game that involves counting and distributing, and is played on a board. Alugulimane is a two-player game that is enjoyed by kids and adults alike, and there are a variety of different games that can be played, each with its own unique name, story, and rules.
This game is a great way to teach children about counting and arithmetic, and it also creates a special bond between grandparents and grandchildren. It is played in many different forms throughout India, and is a great way to pass the time and have some fun with friends and family.
In conclusion, traditional indoor board games in India such as pagade, chowkabara, and alugulimane are not only a fun way to pass the time, but they also serve as a cultural link to the country’s past and provide an opportunity for people to come together and socialize. These games are enjoyed by people of all ages and are a great way to bring people together and create lasting memories.