Childhood is a precious time marked by innocence, creativity, and the joy of play. In the vibrant Indian culture, Punjabi childhood games hold a special place, carrying with them a deep sense of tradition and nostalgia. These games, often passed down through generations, reflect the rich heritage of the Punjabi people and their close-knit communities.
From the bustling streets of Amritsar to the serene villages of Ludhiana, Punjabi children have cherished these games for centuries, finding not only entertainment but also valuable life lessons in teamwork, strategy, and perseverance. Join us as we delve into the world of Punjabi childhood games, where laughter, camaraderie, and cultural heritage blend seamlessly into the tapestry of growing up in Punjab.
Childhood Games For Punjabi Kids
Childhood games hold a profound place in the hearts of Punjabis, carrying deep and enduring meanings that resonate with their rich cultural heritage.
Punjabi childhood games are a celebration of community and togetherness. Punjab is known for its close-knit communities, and these games have been instrumental in fostering social bonds among neighbors, friends, and family members. Each game, like the ancient game of kite flying called “Pataga uḍā’uṇa” (ਪਤੰਗ ਉਡਾਉਣ) during Basant Panchami, connects the present generation with the traditions of their past.
Another reason why Punjabi childhood games hold charming memories is they instill essential values such as teamwork, respect, and determination. Games like “kabaddi” (ਕਬੱਡੀ) teach the importance of collaboration and strategy, while others instill a strong sense of sportsmanship and fair play.
Traditional Games Played By Punjabi Children
There are several games for boys and girls, but some are specific to what boys love and what girls play often. There are also games where children sit and divide into two teams. Let’s look at some of the traditional Punjabi games, how the game is played, and the target of all the players.
1. Gulli Danda (ਗੁੱਲੀ ਡੰਡਾ): In this game, a two-foot-long stick is used to hit a small wooden “gulli” (approximately five inches long). The gully is sharpened on both sides, allowing it to bounce in the air when struck.
2. Jhula Jhulna (ਝੂਲਾ ਝੂਲਨਾ): This game involves swinging on a traditional swing called a “jhula” in Punjabi. It is a popular outdoor activity, especially during spring and summer.
3. Rasi Kudna (ਰਾਸੀ ਕੁਦਨਾ:_ In this game, children use ropes “rasi” to jump or skip. The game likely involves various rope-jumping activities.
4. Gudday Guddion Ke Khel (ਗੁਡੈ ਗੁਡਿਓਨਕੇ ਖੇਲ): At home, children sit and play with their dolls – it would commonly be two or four girls playing with homemade toys or dolls called “gudday” (male dolls) or “guddion” (female dolls).
5. Chupan Chupai (ਚੁਪਨ ਚੁਪਾਈ): Similar to hide and seek, one team of children hides, and the other team seeks them out. The motive of the game is to gather the hiding children.
6. Golra Chupaki (ਗੋਲਰਾ ਚੁਪਾਕੀ): Children sit in a circle, and one child moves around the circle with a piece of cloth, secretly placing it behind another child. If a child discovered the cloth, they would have to chase and tag the one who placed it. This game involves singing songs aloud.
7. Tirinjen ਤਿਰਿੰਜਨ: Tirinjen is a social club-like gathering for young girls where they spin and sing. It involves spinning wheels and singing and dancing while expressing various emotions like sorrow and happiness.
8. Kikli (ਕਿਕਲੀ): Kikli is a game primarily for women. Two girls clasp their hands and move in a circle, often played by pairs, four girls, and multiple people.
9. Gheeta Pathar (ਘੀਟਾ ਪਾਥਰ): This game involves using pebbles, stones, or broken earthenware pieces that can be broken further into smaller pieces. It is played sitting on the floor.
10. Khidu (ਖਿਡੂ): Khidu is a game accompanied by rhymes and is suitable for children. It involves counting and singing songs in multiple rounds.
11. Chicho Chich Ganerian (ਚਿਚੋ ਚਿਚ ਗਨੇਰਿਅਨ): Suitable for both boys and girls, this game involves drawing vertical lines. It is often played by two teams competing to draw as many lines as possible.
12. Kidi Kada (ਕਿਡੀ ਕਾੜਾ) or Stapoo (ਸਟੈਪੂ): Played by both boys and girls, this game involves a small court drawn on the ground and the use of a stone as part of the game.
13. Ghaggar Phissi (ਘੱਗਰ ਫਿੱਸੀ): Boys play this game where one boy bends, and others try to get on top of him. The one who can bear the weight wins, while the others lose.
14. Kabaddi (ਕਬੱਡੀ): A popular game played by both boys and girls. Two teams compete, with a player crossing a line, touching an opponent, and returning to their side in a single breath to score points.
16. Rasa Kashi (ਰਸਾ ਕਾਸ਼ੀ): Typically played by men, two teams engage in a tug of war holding both the ends of a rope, trying to drag the opposing team across a line to win.
Wrapping Up Punjabi Childhood Games
Whenever village kids gather, whether there are few kids or many, the team spirit awakens and they start playing a game or four! With children sitting, parents would engage in evening social activities – it ends up being a wonderful time for the parents and all the children. There are many games that we still have not discussed like the Asian games and what brought India to the World Cup! Be sure to check out this link for all the details!
Learn Punjabi With Ling
One’s childhood is certainly filled with color when Punjabi childhood games start! A game refreshes a child’s heart and helps them engage in many meaningful ways with their community. Punjabis are well aware of the importance of childhood games.
To know more about these amazing people like their folk songs, food, culture, and dance – try the Ling app. It has a host of information on the culture but also is a very efficient app for learning Punjabi.
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