Pakdam Pakadi is a game that has been a part of every Indian child’s childhood. It is not only seen as a game, but it is also a means of refreshing our childhood memories. The most special thing about this game is that it does not require any special equipment or place. It can be played in an open green field, dry filed, street, terrace, or courtyard of the house. This game not only entertains, but also helps in the physical and mental development of children.
In foreign countries the game of Pakdam Pakadi is popular as Rat-a-Tat game and for growing kids it is one of the best and entertaining games. This game is played between 2 players, however if there are more than 2 players like 5 or 7 then it is more fun to play and good for body fitness too.
Let’s know more about what is Pakdam Pakadi game and how it is played…
What is Pakdam Pakadi
Pakdam Pakadi is a traditional Indian game of children, which is usually played in small groups in open ground. The objective of this game is for one player to catch other players, while the rest of the players try to save themselves. It can also be seen as an Indian version of the ‘tag’ game.
This game tests the ability of children to run, be alert and make strategies. This game promotes the physical health of children as well as teaches them teamwork, quick decision making and discipline.
So, in this game one player tries to catch the other player, and if he succeeds then now the other player tries to catch another player and this keeps going on in chain and it has no end. As one player try to catch others, and others try to defend so the player can’t catch this game is known as Pakdam Pakadi.
How to play Pakdam Pakadi ?
Pakdam Pakadi does not require many rules to play. This is very simple and easy game as in this a player has to run and catch other players (any one player). Below are the rules and methods of playing this game, so let’s dive in and learn about how to play the game of Pakdam Pakadi.
1. Number of players
This game can be played between 2 players, but it is recommended; play it when you have 4-5 players in your group. At least 4-5 players can play this game, but the more the number of players, the more fun the game will be.
2. Pakdam Pakadi Playground
Once your group is ready to play, its time to choose where to play Pakdam Pakadi? So for this the place should be open and safe, such as a park, an open field, no traffic street, roof, house backyard. Make sure there are no dangerous things like sharp metals, stones, bricks on the ground. If such danger things exist, better to clean the ground first or find other clean place.
3. Start of Play
In this game, via a toss or age system a Catcher is selected. Once the catcher is selected, the other players are the ‘Runners’, who have to save themselves from the catcher.
4. Method of play
Now when all ready, The catcher will count from 1 to 10 and tries to catch the other players by running. When the catcher touches someone, that player considered ‘out’ and takes the catcher’s place. Means that particular runner is now a catcher and will tag other other runner.
Meanwhile the rest of the players save themselves by running fast or hiding cleverly. If there is a hidden place they will hide, else they will run so the catcher can’t catch them.
5. End of the game
This game has no end, however the game ends when everyone feels tired. It can also be played on a round basis, where a new catcher is chosen in every round.
Conclusion
Pakdam Pakdai is not only a game, but it is also a part of our Indian culture. It helps children to become physically, mentally and socially strong. This game should be adopted in the modern age as well so that children can increase their creativity and activity by reducing screen time.
In game like Kabaddi and Kho-Kho which are played at international level Pakdam Pakdai plays a big role in developing the foundational skills necessary for more complex sports. The game of Pakdam Pakdai teaches a player how to tag a player, how to run fast on ground, and how to defend.
If your children do not play catching, teach them this game. This will not only be entertaining for them but will also give you a chance to relive your sweet childhood memories. So, revive this game today and participate in it with your kids and don’t forget to share it with others – Have a nice day!
