Traditional Indian games take centre stage at this summer cultural programme in Chennai

In a country that is rich in tradition, remembering where we have come from becomes increasingly important. Reconnecting with our roots, however, need not be tedious nor a chore — it could be done through a session of games. A Summer Journey in India, an initiative by Kreeda and Kamala, two Chennai brands, is a weekly programme in the city that shines a light on Indian culture through traditional games, crafts, and stories.

Kreeda, an organisation dedicated to reviving traditional Indian games, is holding weekly sessions in collaboration with Kamala — the Crafts Shop of the Crafts Council of India.

Traditional Indian games
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Held every Saturday in May, each week focusses on a different State by looking at the traditions and games that make them unique. The first session kicked off on May 9 and focussed on Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

The session featured music by Carnatic vocalist and Sangeetha Kalanidhi recipient, S Sowmya, and a variety of traditional games that showcased the heritage of the chosen states. People were seated on mats, trying to arrange pebbles in rows of three for the game dahdi. Or playing vaikuntapali, a traditional Andhra game similar to snakes and ladders.

Rather than holding on to heritage for the sake of nostalgia, the focus of the sessions is to bring generations together in order to engage with Indian culture. Traditional games are available to play, and they are accompanied by visuals and regional crafts connected to the chosen State. In the weeks to come, Vinita Sidharatha, founder, Kreeda will helm the event.

Traditional Indian games
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

“A person might not know about the traditions that come from areas in Andhra” says Vinita, reflecting, after the conclusion of the first session. “We can build awareness for everyone to understand and appreciate. It’s a wonderful window into our cultural events.”

On May 16, attendees will attempt an exploration of Odisha accompanied by a conversation with historian Chitra Madhavan. After that, there will be a stop in Karnataka where the culture of the State will be revealed by historian V Sriram. Finally, the last destination of the month is Tamil Nadu with author-historian Pradeep Chakravarthy.

Traditional Indian games
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

“There is something for everyone to take away,” says Vanita. “Not just for adults, but the children too would pop their heads up to listen when they heard the music playing or when the talks began. Then of course, they would go back to being engrossed in the games.”

A Summer Journey in India will be held every Saturday in May, between 10.30am and 12.30pm, at Kamala – The Crafts Shop, Royapettah. To register contact 9840700445 / 98417 4830