JAY JOSHI
Technology and globalisation has indeed changed our life in a number of ways, not only the way we work, but also the way we play. While mobile phones and computers are offering interesting and addictive games to play indoors, sports such as cricket or football are becoming the preferred games when it comes to outdoors. But as we adapt to these global trends, we must not forget the beauty of our own traditional Goan games that have survived for generations. With this goal, Soul Travelling, in collaboration with Dattaprasad Shetkar, is organising ‘Games of Goa’, an event that seeks to present traditional Goan games in a brand new packaging, and connect the new generations to its past and its heritage. The event is set to be held on February 23-24 on SAG ground at Campal, Panaji.
“In the age of mobile and PUBG, we think it is important that people experience the games that we played in childhood,” says Varun Hegde, founder of Soul Travelling.
In order to explain these games to the new generation in the language that it understands, the organisers have developed a series of printed displays as well as videos explaining the rules of the game, and has also undertaken video documentation of these traditional games. “Secondly, we are also going to different colleges and playing these games with students, and a number of teams from various educational institutions are expected to participate in this event,” explains Varun.
However, the key question that such programmes face is that they might remain as popular events, giving us a polished glimpse of bygone era rather then effectively reviving the actual traditions. Such will not be the case with Games of Goa, asserts Varun. “Our interactions with college students around Goa will continue for the entire year, and we are confident that Games of Goa will go on to have a deeper social and cultural impact,” he states.
Another complaint that one often hears when trying to promote outdoor games is that increasing urbanisation is making it difficult to find open grounds. “There are two ways to address this concern,” says Hegde. “Firstly, with these traditional games, we never really need big grounds like you need for football or cricket. These games need minimal open spaces. Also, you do not need any special equipment for games such as Logorio. You could just make a tower out of say coconut shells, grab a ball, and start playing!” he elaborates. “Secondly, we are also having a number of indoor traditional games such as Tabul Fale, Veerani etc. and in case of the latter, all you need is twigs from a twig broom.”
Apart from promoting traditional Goan games, Games of Goa will also focus on showcasing various local brands and artists. The venue shall also have stalls offering memorabilia such as such as cricket bats made from coconut leaf stalk, hand-held catapults, metal rings, tyres, etc.
Event: Games of Goa
Date and time: February 23-24, 10 am to 9 pm
Venue: SAG ground, Campal, Panaji
Games included in the event
ï®â€†Togorio/ Lobyo/ Nokoryo
ï®â€†Taablaam/ Taabul Fale
ï®â€†Gud Fale / Gajre
ï®â€†Tiktem
ï®â€†Waagaani
ï®â€†Koinde Baal ( gilli danda)
ï®â€†Bodyaani (Goan hopscotch)
ï®â€†Badyaani (sticks)
ï®â€†Vhiraani (broom sticks)
ï®â€†Gundyaani/ Faatraani/ Jhirkyo
ï®â€†Mithaa Khel / Mith Fale
ï®â€†Khaambyaani (pillars)
ï®â€†Biyaani (cashew nuts)
ï®â€†Kovchyaani (bangle pieces)
ï®â€†Sune aani Haad (Dog and the bone)
ï®â€†Vetaani
ï®â€†Ringaani
ï®â€†Combya Zhuz (cock fight)
ï®â€†Cricket with piraadyache bat
