Pallankuzhi. Pallanghuzi referred to as Pallankuli, is a traditional mancala game prevalent in South India, notably Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Pallankuzhi: A traditional board game of TamilNadu that lost in time

Pallankuzhi: A traditional board game of Tamil Nadu that lost in time: Pallanghuzi also referred to as Pallankuli, is a traditional mancala game prevalent in Southern India, notably Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Later, the games spread to include more states. Moreover, the game included Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, as well as Malaysia and Sri Lanka.

In today’s digitalization wilderness, children of all ages glue to their phones.  People are socializing less and engaging in less physical activity. People used to invent new techniques and build new fascinating games for leisure years ago. Pallankuzhi, often known as Mancala, is an example of an incredible game. On the Internet, you may find a plethora of online Mancala gaming programs.

Pallankuzhi. Pallanghuzi referred to as Pallankuli, is a traditional mancala game prevalent in South India, notably Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Pallankuzhi. Pallanghuzi referred to as Pallankuli, is a traditional mancala game prevalent in South India, notably Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Pallankujhi, Pallamkuzhi, Pallangulli, Pallankulli, or Alagulimane is a classic South Indian game popular in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. People know it as Mancala, and it is a Western game that has evolved in Egypt.

A traditional board game of TamilNadu that lost in time:

Basically, Pallankuzhi is as many pits when contorted into ‘Pal’ which indicates MANY and ‘kuzhi’ that means Hole or Pit. It is a strategy game with several pits and Seedlings on it.

Small gravel, pebbles, mulberry seeds, or shells might all be used as seeds. In other regions, guys dig real holes in the earth and play in them. There is historical proof of similar trenches in Egyptian pyramids. Pallankuzhi, often known as Mancala, is a Math-based game that teaches youngsters hand-eye coordination, counting, and thinking skills. Pallankuzhi game tournaments feature women in Tamilnadu to encourage this age-old pastime.

Two players play the game on a hardwood board with 14 pits (holes). Each pit has six seeds, while it is also possible to play with five or four seeds in some areas. The rule is to take turns; the individual with the first chance can begin by plucking all of the beans in any of the spaces on his or her side. After selecting six seeds from, say, Pit A4 (see image above), the player must place them one by one in the pits that follow.  Keep in mind that players perform the game counterclockwise. The same participant will keep playing by plucking all of the seeds out from the pit adjacent to the pit into the last dropped bean.

Pallankuzhi: A traditional board game of Tamil Nadu that lost in time:

As a consequence, player A will choose all of the beans from pits and dump them in a circumferential manner. In the subsequent stage, the prize seeds are deposited into the holes with 6 seeds each. If any of the pits are not completely filled, they are regarded as useless and are covered with a leaf or piece of paper prior to being used in the following round. The competitors kept away the leftover seeds. Players play the game in accordance with the rules, and the victor receives the greatest number of seeds as a prize.

The game, which is centered on the notion of sowing and harvesting,’ was formerly played utilizing tamarind seeds, wayside stones, or cowry shells.  Despite a prominent mention of groups assembling to play games, and shrine floor layouts proving it, there is a propensity to disregard games while discussing Indian traditions.

Pallankuzhi Pallanghuzi also referred to as Pallankuli, is a traditional mancala game prevalent in South India, notably Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Pallankuzhi Pallanghuzi also referred to as Pallankuli, is a traditional mancala game prevalent in South India, notably Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

So, this is all about the game. Although, it has lost its glaze in time. However, the young generation can gain knowledge. They can make the game worthy again. Stay tuned with us for more updates. We will share more stories like these in the coming days. Currently, there are many more games we need to cover. You can also check out our latest stories from the site. Always support Go Beyond Sports.

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