Top 5 Traditional Indian Board Games You Should Try

Board games are a timeless way to connect with loved ones, test your strategic thinking, and delve into rich cultural traditions. In India, the roots of gaming go deep, with many games reflecting aspects of daily life, mythology, and morality. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual gamer, or someone seeking to engage kids in meaningful play, these traditional Indian board games will not disappoint. Here’s a curated list of five popular games you should definitely try, along with gameplay tips to get started.

1. Chowka Bara: A Game of Strategy and Luck

 

Also known as Pachisi or Pagade in various regions, Chowka Bara is one of the oldest and most beloved Indian board games. Its origins date back to ancient times, and it’s often linked to royal courts and epic tales like the Mahabharata.

Gameplay: Played on a square board divided into a grid, Chowka Bara involves moving tokens based on the roll of traditional cowrie shells or dice. The objective is to move all your tokens around the board and into the home square before your opponents do.

Tips for Beginners:

• Master the art of blocking your opponent’s tokens while advancing yours.

• Observe the patterns of movement—anticipating your opponent’s moves can give you an edge.

For an immersive experience, check out the handcrafted Chowka Bara sets available at Roll the Dice.

2. Aadu Huli: The Ultimate Game of Wits

Aadu Huli, also known as Goat and Tiger, is a thrilling asymmetrical game where strategy reigns supreme. This two-player game is ideal for those who love a challenge.

Gameplay: One player controls three tigers, and the other manages up to fifteen goats. The tigers aim to hunt the goats by leaping over them, while the goats must strategically block the tigers to win.

Tips for Beginners:

• If you’re the tigers, focus on cornering the goats for easier captures.

• As the goats, plan your moves to create traps, limiting the tigers’ mobility.

This game is as much about foresight as it is about cunning—a must-try for all ages.

3. Navakankari: Nine Men’s Morris

Navakankari, the Indian variant of Nine Men’s Morris, is a captivating strategy game that has stood the test of time. Played on a board featuring three concentric squares, it’s all about creating “mills” (rows of three) while blocking your opponent.

Gameplay: Players take turns placing their nine tokens on the board. Once all tokens are placed, they can move along the lines to create mills and remove their opponent’s tokens.

Tips for Beginners:

• Concentrate on forming mills while keeping an eye on your opponent’s strategy.

• Preserve your tokens; every loss brings you closer to defeat.

Navakankari is not only entertaining but also an excellent way to hone your tactical skills.

4. Alaguli Mane: The Ancient Mancala

Known by various names across India, Alaguli Mane is a mancala game requiring a wooden board with multiple pits. This game has a rich cultural heritage and is often passed down through generations.

Gameplay: Players take turns distributing seeds, pebbles, or shells in a clockwise manner around the board. The goal is to collect the most seeds by the end of the game.

Tips for Beginners:

• Focus on learning the “houses”—some pits have strategic advantages.

• Quick mental calculations can turn the tide in your favor.

Check out beautifully crafted Alaguli Mane boards at Roll the Dice.

5. Sholo Gutti: The Indian Checkers

Sholo Gutti, popular in rural India, is a two-player game similar to checkers but with unique gameplay dynamics. It’s simple to learn yet challenging to master, making it perfect for quick rounds of fun.

Gameplay: Each player starts with 16 tokens placed on the intersections of a square grid. The aim is to capture all of your opponent’s tokens by jumping over them.

Tips for Beginners:

• Control the center of the board to dominate the game.

• Anticipate your opponent’s jumps and counter strategically.

This game’s portability makes it a favorite for outdoor gatherings.

Why Play Traditional Indian Board Games?

• Cultural Connection: These games offer a glimpse into India’s rich heritage and values.

• Skill Development: From strategic thinking to teamwork, they foster essential life skills.

• Family Bonding: Perfect for quality time with loved ones, they transcend age barriers.

Where to Buy?

For high-quality traditional board games that blend heritage with modern craftsmanship, explore Roll the Dice. Their extensive collection features premium game sets, ensuring hours of fun and learning for everyone.

Explore More

Looking to learn more about the history and variations of these games? Visit our blog section for detailed insights.

Revisit the joys of traditional gaming with these top five picks. Whether you’re teaching your kids or reliving childhood memories, these games promise an enriching experience. So, gather your family and friends, roll the dice, and let the fun begin!