Just Play
Author: Vinita Sidhartha
Publisher: Rupa Publications
Rating: 4/5
Indian mythology and cultural heritage has a plethora of ancient games that the people used to enjoy. Not only did these games offer moments of respite from the endearing political situations and the fearful apprehensions, they also instilled values of teamwork and ethics of sportsmanship. Just Play is an interesting compilation of most of the games that have either been conveniently ignored or have been forgotten because they just formed a meager part of the plot of a bigger story. Hence, this book is interesting because of its selectivity and interpretations.
Right from the better known ones like Snakes and Ladders and Chaupad to getting acquainted with more traditional ones in which tamarind seeds were broken into halves to roll as a dice, this book takes us back to the rural lanes of India where games were played in order to combat stress and beat boredom. Sometimes, these games played a major role in decision-making too. Written interestingly, this book is well-researched and is backed by pictures that help the readers know what the games looked like! I liked the conceptualization of this topic, for it’s not only unique but also quite interesting. Most of the games are still played though a more modern and simpler version is sought after.
An interesting read, afterall!
Best wishes to the author!
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