While modern-day games hog limelight for plausible reasons, the country cannot shed its rich sporting heritage where sports have made a yeoman’s contribution in giving India a distinct identity despite diversity. Gauravi Patel finds India’s sporting history originating from the Indus Valley Civilization and says some games like Snakes and Ladders, Chess, and Cards remain rooted in the Indian psyche.
The rich sporting heritage of India speaks volumes about the nation’s deep-rooted cultural and historical traditions. From ancient times, sports have played a significant role in shaping India’s identity and furthering unity among its diverse population.
India’s sporting history dates back to the Indus Valley Civilisation (2500-1550 BC), where games like boxing, hunting and archery were played with weapons used in war. These early sports not only showcased physical prowess but also served as a means to develop strategic thinking and mental toughness.
The Vedic period (1500-500 BC) saw the emergence of games like Chaturanga, which is believed to be the precursor to modern chess. This game, along with others like Snakes and Ladders, Chess, and Cards, in traditional forms and names albeit, has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries, transcending generations and geographical boundaries.
Strategy games
Chaturanga was believed to have originated during the sixth century in the Gupta empire. The board game was a game of strategy played in order to simulate war strategy with cavalry, infantry, chariots, etc. Also known as Chaduranga was played on an 8×8 unchecked board and alternatively referred to as Ashtapada.
This ancient pastime is believed to be one of humanity’s inaugural forays into the realm of strategic gameplay. While the exact rules of Chaturanga remain elusive, sparse historical accounts attest to the enduring visual semblance between Chaturanga and its modern successor, Chess.
Chaturanga was a test of patience and fortitude, characterised by meticulous contemplation rather than impulsive actions. Despite the simplicity of its gameplay mechanics, the mental exertion required to navigate each move was profound and intricate.
It imparted invaluable lessons on the principles of Karma (actions) and Dharma (duty), elucidating the intricate dynamics of leadership amidst tumultuous circumstances. Through its gameplay, it vividly illustrated the inherent limitations of power and the far-reaching consequences of individual actions, all while honing the intellect and fostering wisdom in those who dared to engage with its challenges
The game of Snakes and Ladders, traditionally known as Moksha Patam, was also invented in ancient India. It derives origin from the philosophy of the highs and lows of life and the principle of karma. One of the oldest references to a game resembling its essence is found in the Mahabharat. Within its narrative, the tale of Yudhishthir’s celestial encounter recounts the playing of Moksha Patam, a game akin to what we now know as Snakes and Ladders.
Moksha Patam, as depicted in the Mahabharat, serves as a metaphorical journey mirroring life’s vicissitudes. Yudhishthir, the protagonist, engages in a cosmic game of dice with a divine being, symbolic of the unpredictable nature of existence. This ancient pastime is emblematic of life’s trials and tribulations, victories and defeats, echoing the cyclical nature of karma and destiny.
The game board itself was ingeniously crafted as a visual allegory of life’s odyssey. Ladders, denoting virtuous acts and noble deeds, symbolised the ascent towards spiritual enlightenment and higher consciousness. Conversely, snakes, embodying vices and immoral behaviour, served as reminders of the pitfalls and setbacks encountered along the path of self-realisation.
Agility and strength
Kho Kho, a contact sport that requires agility and strength, is another traditional Indian game that has been around for centuries. This sport, which involves chasing and tagging opponents, is popular in rural areas and has been a part of Indian village life for generations.
Similarly, Kabaddi, a team sport that requires physical contact to score points, has been a common recreational sport in Indian villages for centuries. These traditional sports not only provide a platform for physical activity but also serve as a means to build community bonds and social cohesion. Over time, however, many such traditional sports were relegated to rural areas only to be revived later in the mainstream.
Today, despite the rise of modern sports, traditional Indian games continue to play a significant role in the society. Kho Kho and Kabaddi, for instance, have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) and the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) – the national governing body for Kho-Kho in India – working to promote these sports at the national and international levels.
PKL, in particular, has been instrumental in popularising Kabaddi, with its high-energy matches and engaging storylines drawing in millions of viewers across the country. Launched in 2014, PKL is Indian men’s professional Kabaddi league and is the most popular such league in the world. It also happens to be the second-most watched sports league in the country, after Cricket’s Indian Premier League.
Ancient origins
Kabaddi traces its origins to ancient Tamil Nadu, more than four thousand years ago, as a derivative of Jallikattu. The sport, reminiscent of taming a bull without physical contact, finds mention in Tamil Sangam literature.
According to folklore, the game also found favour among the Yadav people, with tales recounting Lord Krishna’s youthful participation, as immortalised in the Abhang by poet Tukaram. Even Gautam Buddha is purported to have indulged in the game for leisurely recreation.
Kho Kho, on the other hand, is believed to have its origins in Maharashtra since the ancient times when it was played atop chariots, known as Rathera or Rath. It was Pune’s Deccan Gymkhana that formalised the rules for the sport for modern-day version.
Interestingly, Kho Kho, alongside indigenous Indian sports such as Kabaddi and Mallakhamb, garnered attention when demonstrated on the sidelines of the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
The early roots of Indian archery are evidenced through two primary sources – ancient cave paintings and the Vedas believed to have been compiled circa 1700–1100 BC, providing invaluable insights into the ancient practice of archery in India. The famous tale of Eklavya who learnt archery from Dronacharya is mentioned in Mahabharat.
Mallakhamb boasts a rich and illustrious history that spans centuries, originating in the 12th century in Maharashtra. The term “Mallakhamb” finds its roots in Marathi, with “Malla” signifying wrestler and “Khamb” denoting pole.
This sport has been mentioned in Ramayan as well. Archaeological discoveries such as Chandraketugarh pottery dating back to the second century BCE also has references to this sport. The earliest direct literary mention of Mallakhamb is traced to the Manasollasa, an early 12th-century text authored by Chalukya king Someshvara III.
Lakshmibai, the Rani of Jhansi, Tatya Tope, and Nana Saheb, were practitioners of Mallakhamb. The training regimen, emphasising balance, dexterity, and discipline, was particularly suited to Maratha warriors renowned for their prowess in guerrilla warfare tactics.
New challenges
Despite their relevance and cultural significance, traditional Indian sports face several challenges. One of the primary challenges is the lack of infrastructure and resources, which can make it difficult for these sports to be promoted and developed. Another challenge is the limited exposure and recognition these sports receive at the international level, which can make it difficult for Indian athletes to compete and succeed in these disciplines.
The government’s initiatives to promote sports at the national level, such as the ‘Khelo India’ programme, are helping in providing the necessary infrastructure and resources for these sports to flourish. Additionally, the rise of digital media and social platforms are increasing exposure and recognition for traditional Indian sports.