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13 Aug 2024

Ludo: A Timeless Indian Board Game and its Global Evolution

Written by

The Logical Indian

Category

Sports

Views

Introduction

Ludo, a widely enjoyed board game played by two to four participants, traces its roots back to the sixth century CE in India. Derived from the ancient Indian game Pachisi/Chausar, Ludo's evolution can be seen in the cave paintings of Ellora, offering a glimpse into its rich history. Although the precise origin remains elusive, it is believed that Ludo has been a part of Indian gaming culture for centuries.

The Historic Ties

Referenced in the Indian epic Mahabharata, a game akin to Ludo was played by Maharajas, highlighting its significance in Indian history. The Ellora Cave paintings provide tangible evidence of a similar board game's popularity, depicted as an illustration on the cave walls. This historical connection firmly establishes Ludo as an indigenous creation of India, known by various names such as ‘Chaucer,’ ‘Chopad,’ and ‘Pachisi.’

Varied Mediums and Names

Throughout Indian history, Ludo assumed different names, including "Chausar," "Chopad," or "Pachisi." It found expression on diverse platforms, from cloth and slate to more formal board settings. The game's adaptability and widespread appeal underscore its deep-rooted cultural significance.

Evolution and Globalization

The modern iteration of Ludo received a patent in 1896, thanks to British national Alfred Collier. The British Royal Army played a pivotal role in popularising and transforming the game. Ludo and its variants have gained international acclaim, enjoyed under various monikers in different countries.

Technological Influence

Despite its ancient origins, Ludo persisted in its physical form during the Mughal era. With the advent of technology, the game underwent a global renaissance, transcending geographical boundaries. Virtual adaptations emerged, allowing players to enjoy Ludo remotely through applications and online platforms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ludo stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of board games and human creativity. Originating in ancient India as Pachisi/Chausar, Ludo has evolved into a globally recognized pastime. Its historical ties, evident in the Mahabharata and Ellora Cave paintings, showcase the game's enduring cultural significance. As Ludo continues to adapt to the changing times, its universal popularity ensures a secure place in the hearts of gamers across generations.

References

Peepul Tree, Aditi Shah, 31st Oct 2017 (https://www.peepultree.world/livehistoryindia/story/living-culture/ludos-indian-roots)
Dawn, Zarrar Khuhro, 30th Jan 2023 (https://www.dawn.com/news/1734309/game-on)
Penn Museum, W. Norman Brown, 8th Apr 2024 (https://www.penn.museum/sites/expedition/the-indian-games-of-pachisi-chaupar-and-chausar/)
Edu Aura
https://www.eduauraa.com/blog/history-of-ludo
Madras Courier
https://madrascourier.com/insight/how-pachisi-an-indian-board-game-became-ludo

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IndiaFirst Life & the logical indian

Headquartered in Mumbai, IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (IndiaFirst Life), is one of the country's youngest life insurance companies. The Logical Indian is an independent and public-spirited digital media platform for Indian Millennials. IndiaFirst Life and The Logical Indian have come together to showcase India’s rich history of innovation in different fields of life which have made a significant mark on humanity and globally. The information presented here is the result of a collaborative effort between The IndiaFirst Life, Dentsu Creative & The Logical Indian. All research and fact-finding is credited to Dentsu Creative in association with The Logical Indian.