The game of Gilli danda is the one of old times sports that played by kids, teens, and adults with 2 wooden sticks. If we talk about the popular bat ball games, then you will find out the Gilli danda is one of favorite sports that is famous in many places all over the India and in nearby countries.
Here Danda is considered as Bat, while the Gilli is considered as ball. There are some rules which makes the Gilli Danda game more exciting and thrilling. You can play this game in open area or backyard. It is played between 2 players or 2 teams and if you know the right strategy you can master this game and win every game like a pro.
Let’s know more about the game of Gilli and Danda and see what’s the history? what are the rules? Different name and many more interesting factors below:
History and Importance of the Game
The history if Gilli danda game is believed to be thousands of years old, possibly dating back over 2500 years and still the game is alive in many rural areas of India. It is one of favorite outdoor games of 80’s and 90’s kids, but with the advancement of technology or popularity of indoor game, video games, the popularity of Gilli Danda game declined and now only played in few areas in village or town or as fun in farm.
The importance of Gilli Danda lies in its simplicity and accessibility. This game can be played without any expensive equipment, making it accessible to even the poorest of the poor children. This game is also helpful in physical and mental development and offers many benefits.
Rules and Method of the Game
This game doesn’t need expensive kit or special ground. It only needs 2 wooden sticks – 1. Gilli and 2. Danda and apart from that an open space to play
- Gilli: A short wooden stick (about 4-6 inches long)
- Danda: A long wooden stick (about 2-2.5 feet long)
Method of the Game
- A small pit is dug on the ground.
- The Gilli is placed on this pit.
- The player hits the Gilli with the stick, causing it to bounce in the air.
- When the Gilli is in the air, the player hits it again with the stick.
- The opposing team tries to catch the Gilli.
- If the Gilli is caught, the batsman is out.
- If the Gilli is not caught, the batsman measures the distance from the place where the Gilli fell to the pit with the stick.
- This distance becomes his points.
Different forms of the game
There are many local variants of Gilli Danda that are played in different parts of India:
- Gulli Danda (North India): Here the gilli is called ‘gulli’.
- Viti-Dandu (Maharashtra): Popular version of Maharashtra.
- Kitti-Billa (Punjab): Known by this name in Punjab.
- Dangali (Gujarat): Gujarati version.
- Lippa-Kondi (Tamil Nadu): A form from South India.
Benefits of the game
There are many benefits of playing Gilli Danda:
- Physical development: This game gives exercise to various parts of the body.
- Eye-hand coordination: Coordination between eyes and hands increases in hitting and catching the gilli.
- Strategic thinking: Players have to make strategies to hit and catch the gilli.
- Team spirit: It is a team sport that teaches cooperation and team spirit.
- Patience and concentration: Patience and concentration are essential for success in the game.
Current Status of Gilli Danda
Although Gilli Danda is a traditional game, today it is facing some challenges:
- Influence of modern games: Games like cricket, football have pushed Gilli Danda back.
- Urbanization: The game has been affected due to lack of playing space in big cities.
- Electronic games: Mobile and video games have drawn the attention of children.
However, some organizations and individuals are trying to save and promote this game. Many schools have included it in their curriculum. Gilli Danda competitions are also held in some states.
Conclusion
Gilli Danda is an important part of India’s rich sporting tradition. It is not only a recreational game but is also linked to our culture and history. It is our responsibility to preserve this game and pass it on to future generations. Gilly Danda reminds us that happiness and entertainment do not require expensive equipment, just two simple wooden sticks and a passion for playing.
In today’s digital age, where children are glued to screens, games like Gilly Danda give them an opportunity to get outside, play with friends and connect with nature. This game is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental health.
Finally, Gilly Danda reminds us that simplicity and plainness have their own importance in life. This game keeps us connected to our roots and gives us a reason to be proud of our heritage. Let us all together preserve this ancient game and pass it on to future generations.