Pitthu aka ‘seven stones’ is a traditional Indian game which is very popular among children and youth from ancient times till date. This game is not only fun but also promotes physical ability, agility, and team spirit. If you are a new player of this game and want to know its Pitthu game rules in detail, then in this article we will let you know about the rules of playing Pitthu game so that you can play it in the best way on the field and win.
Like other games, this game has some rules which is quite easy and simple. And once you know how it is played, you can play it in right way with others and manage your team members too. Now let’s dive in checkout some common rules of Pitthu game and do share it with others on social apps!
1. Materials required for Pitthu
Pitthu game does not require much material. It is very simple game and all you need to play this game is a pile of stones and a soft ball. Both these items you can easily find in an open ground and regarding the ball you can create it at home with paper, unused cloths or rubber stuff.
- Stone pile (Pitthu): Seven small stones have to be kept in a pile, but the size of the stones should be such that they can easily stay in the pile. Either you can buy the stones from online stores or you can collect it from the ground. All you need just flat shaped stones and size of stones in ascending or descending order. If unable to find, you can play with 7 flat same size stones, but its best go with ascending or descending order
- Soft Ball: A small, soft ball like a rubber ball is used, which reduces the chances of injury. You can create this ball at home and being a kid you can take the help of elder and request for to create a soft ball for Pithhu game.
Both these items you can get for free. You don’t need to pay anything… but still if you want perfect items for professional play then you can order both from online stores.
2. Number of players and team building
The game of Pitthu is played between two teams. Each team should have at least three to five players, so that the game remains interesting and competitive. For learning purpose it can be played between 2 players… but it is best, arrange 6 to 10 players so it can easily be played between 2 groups.
- Team A (Team that knocks down the Pitthu): The main task of this team is to knock down the Pitthu through the ball from a given distance. There objective is to rebuild the Pitthu!
- Team B (Team that saves the Pitthu): The task of the other team is to stop the Team A players from forming a pile of Pitthu again. There objective is to eliminate all players of opponent team by tagging each with ball.
3. Initial setup of the game
Before starting the Pitthu game, 7 stones are stacked one above the other at a central place of ground. After this, an agreement is made between the teams as to which team will get the chance to throw the ball first. Usually, methods like ‘coin toss’ or ‘odd-even’ are used for this and once that done, the game begins.
4. Objective of the game
The main objective of the Pitthu game is that one team knocks down the pile of stones and then tries to form the pile again, while the other team prevents that pile from forming. The excitement of the game increases when there is a struggle between the two teams as to who can accomplish their goal first.
If team A succeeds and forms the pile, then team A is the winner. But if team B succeeds in eliminating all the players of team A, then team B is the winner.
5. Rules for knocking down the Pitthu
The first player of Team A (who will knock down the Pitthu) throws the ball at the pile of stones. If the Pitthu falls after coming in contact with the ball, then Team A has to immediately rebuild the pile while Team B has to stop it.
- First attempt: The Pithu has to be knocked down in the first attempt itself, otherwise the turn is given to the other team.
- Retry: If the Pithu does not fall in the first attempt, then other members of Team A can also try, but it depends on the agreement of the game.
6. Rules for rebuilding the Pithu
When a player of Team A knocks down the Pithu, from that moment onwards he has the right to try to rebuild the Pithu. To build the Pithu, players have to carefully place stones one above the other.
Teamwork required: Teamwork needs to be displayed to recreate the Pithu as the players of Team B are constantly throwing balls to stop the Pithu from being recreated.
Agility and composure: Composure and agility are very important during the game as the other team can constantly target you with balls while you are recreating the Pithu.
7. Ball hitting rules
When Team A tries to recreate the Pithu, the players of Team B try to stop them by using the ball. If the ball touches any player, that player is considered out of the game. In short, the objective of Team B is to Tag all players of Team A with the soft ball and Win the game!
- Full out rule: If all the players of Team A are out, then Team B gets a chance to win the game.
- Ball avoidance: The players of Team A have to run or duck to avoid the ball so that they can recreate the Pitthu.
8. Game completion and scoring
The main attraction of the Pitthu game is when both the teams struggle. Team A tries to eliminate all the players of Team B with the soft ball… while the players of Team B protect themselves from the soft ball and try to make the Pitthu again. This makes the game interesting and there are two main ways to end the game:
- Successful Pitthu: If the players of Team A or Team B successfully make the Pitthu, they get points and the next round of the game begins.
- Failed Attempt: If Team A or Team B fails to make the Pitthu or all the players are out, Team B or Team B is declared the winner of the game.
9. Fouls and Fairness Rules in the Game
It is necessary to follow certain rules while playing the game so that the game remains fair and exciting. So it is advised, follow the below given rules at first placed while playing Pitthu game.
- Ball Control: Team B is allowed to use only one ball, so that no unfair advantage is gained in the game.
- Throwing or Moving Stones: During the game, no player of any team should deliberately try to move or drop the Pithu stones.
- Fairness Observance: All the players of the team must respect fairness and rules during the game.
10. Benefits and Entertainment Aspect of the Game
Pithu game is not only a means of entertainment but it also provides physical and mental benefits. During the game, players experience speed, alertness, and teamwork. This game helps in promoting team spirit and unity among children and youth. Overall it is best game for outdoor and still played by many kids, teens and adults.
Conclusion
Pitthu is a game that has been played in India for years. Due to its simple rules and equipment, this game is popular among all age groups. If you are new to this game, then by following the rules mentioned above, you can have an exciting and fun experience. Always follow the rules while playing the game and respect fairness so that everyone can enjoy this game.
Did we forget to mention any other Pitthu rule? Please let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share the most common Pitthu game rules with others – Have Fun!