Maharashtra, a vibrant state in the western peninsular region of India, is known for its rich history and culture and its wide array of traditional and modern games. From bustling outdoor activities to quiet indoor pastimes, the state offers something for everyone. Among these, Ludo stands out as the number one indoor game, beloved by families throughout Maharashtra for its simplicity and the joy it brings to players of all ages.
With this article, we will talk about those all-time favorite Maharashtra games played both outdoors & indoors. These games capture the essence of traditional and contemporary interests in their way.
So, let’s move on.
Outdoor Games Played in Maharashtra
Outdoor games play a significant role in Maharashtra’s cultural fabric, fostering community spirit, physical fitness, and cultural continuity. These games played in Maharashtra range from traditional sports like Kabaddi and Kho-Kho, which have roots stretching back centuries, to more contemporary games like cricket, which have found a fervent following in the state. Each game carries stories of heritage and collective identity, making them more than just a means of entertainment.
Kabaddi in Mumbai
Kabaddi, one of those traditional Maharashtra games known for its blend of tag and wrestling, holds a special place in Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai. The city is a hub for Kabaddi enthusiasts, boasting top playing grounds like the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Indoor Stadium. While most grounds are accessible without an entry fee, some might charge a nominal amount. Mumbai’s love for Kabaddi is also seen in its top teams, which participate in leagues and tournaments, showcasing its enduring popularity.
In Mumbai, official Kabaddi matches, especially those of the Pro Kabaddi League, are often held at The Dome, NSCI SVP Stadium. This venue has been highlighted as a critical location for hosting the much-anticipated playoffs and other significant matches of the Pro Kabaddi Season. The stadium is over 1 lakh square feet and has a more than 2500 people capacity.
The NSCI (National Sports Club of India) Dome is known for its state-of-the-art facilities. It has served as a prime location for various sports events in Mumbai, making it a famous ground for official Kabaddi matches in the city.
Kho-Kho in Kolhapur
Kho-Kho, a traditional tag game, has a storied history in Maharashtra games, with Kolhapur a prominent center for the sport. The game, celebrated for its speed and agility, is deeply integrated into the local culture. Kolhapur hosts several kho-kho playing grounds where enthusiasts gather to play and watch matches. The city has produced top teams that compete in district and state-level tournaments, highlighting the game’s competitive spirit.
4 Best stadiums for Kho-Kho tournaments in Kolhapur
Certain venues might be more commonly used for official matches and tournaments due to their facilities and capacity to host sports events, including Kho-Kho.
- Rajarshi Shahu Stadium
- Kolhapur Sports Association (KSA) Ground
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Stadium
- School and College Grounds
Mallakhamba in Pune
Mallakhamba is from those gymnastic games played in Maharashtra that involve a vertical wooden pole or rope. It is integral to Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, especially in Pune. The city is renowned for its Mallakhamba schools and training centers, which offer facilities to learn and practice this unique sport. Pune’s Mallakhamba teams have gained national recognition, showcasing the city’s contribution to keeping this ancient sport alive.
5 best places for Mallakhamba in Pune:
- Shree Samartha Vyayam Mandir (SSVM)
- Lalit Kala Kendra, Pune University
- Deccan Gymkhana
- Vishwashanti Sangeet Kala Academy
- Maharashtra Mandal
Marbles (Goti) in the lanes of Nagpur
Playing marbles, locally known as Goti, is a cherished childhood pastime in the narrow lanes of Nagpur. Goti is from those games to play in Maharashtra that involve shooting small glass marbles with precision and skill. While formal playing grounds for marbles are rare, the game thrives in informal settings throughout Nagpur, bringing together children and adults alike.
Cricket at the Maidans
Cricket has a special place in Maharashtra’s heart, with Maidans (open fields) in cities like Mumbai and Pune as nurseries for budding cricketers. Teams like the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League highlight the state’s contribution to the national cricketing scene, making it one of the best games played in Maharashtra.
Best-known cricket stadiums for official matches & tournaments in Mumbai
- Azad Maidan
- Oval Maidan
- Cross Maidan
- Shivaji Park
These grounds are open to the public, although some may have nominal fees for maintenance.
Many tournaments and leagues are played at the Maidan of Mumbai. Let’s check some of the most popular cricket tournament games played in Maharashtra.
- Harris Shield
- Giles Shield
- Kanga League
- Times Shield
- Purshottam Shield
- Talim Shield
- Dr. H.D. Kanga Memorial Cricket League (Kanga League)
Indoor Games Played in Maharashtra
Maharashtra’s indoor games reflect the state’s rich cultural tapestry, offering a mix of strategy, skill, and social interaction. From classic board games like Ludo and Carrom to intellectual challenges like Chess and Scrabble, these games played in Maharashtra are integral to Maharashtra’s social life.
Ludo: A Family Favorite
Ludo, a game that traces back to the ancient Indian game of Pachisi, is a beloved pastime in Maharashtra. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the excitement it brings to players of all ages. Families in Maharashtra often gather to play Ludo, enjoying its competitive yet friendly spirit.
Online platforms like Zupee have digitized the game, allowing players to enjoy Ludo with a modern twist and even compete for cash prizes. The best thing is that Zupee Ludo offers multiple game variations, including Ludo Supreme League, Ludo Supreme, Ludo Ninja, and Ludo Turbo. However, these top games to play in Maharashtra have certain rules and offer different winning strategies.
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Carrom: Striking Memories
Carrom is a tabletop game of skill and precision deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s cultural landscape. The game, played by flicking a striker disc to sink pieces into corner pockets, is a staple in homes and clubs across the state. Besides this, Maharashtra hosts several carrom tournaments, underlining the game’s popularity and competitive edge.
Learn how to play Carrom and win exciting prizes.
Chess: The Game of Kings
With its origins in ancient India, chess is one of those revered games to play in Maharashtra, embodying strategy and mental prowess. The state has produced notable chess players who have competed on national and international stages. Moreover, local tournaments and chess clubs in Maharashtra encourage participation and nurture talent from a young age.
Learn how to play chess online and win exciting prizes.
Scrabble: Wordplay Wonders
Scrabble, the classic word board game, has a dedicated following in the list of Maharashtra games, where players vie to create high-scoring words on the game board. The game is entertaining and educational, enhancing vocabulary and spelling skills. Maharashtra hosts Scrabble tournaments that attract word enthusiasts from across the state.
Card Games: A Cultural Staple
Regarding the popular games to play in Maharashtra, card games are a cultural staple in Maharashtra. From traditional games like Teen Patti to international favorites like Bridge and Poker, card games are popular entertainment and socialization. The state sees regular card game gatherings and tournaments, reflecting the enduring appeal of these games.
You can also play these online card games for cash on your smartphone. However, to play these Maharashtra games, having a legitimate mobile app that sponsors cash tournaments is essential.
Conclusion
Maharashtra’s diverse range of games, from energetic outdoor sports to engaging indoor pastimes, reflects the state’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant social fabric. These best games played in Maharashtra not only serve as a means of entertainment and physical activity but also to connect with tradition and community.
Whether it’s strategic battles on a chessboard, physical agility on the Kabaddi field, or the simple joy of a Ludo game among family, Maharashtra’s games continue to play a pivotal role in its cultural identity.
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FAQs – Maharashtra Games
Ludo games can be downloaded from various platforms. However, you can download the game from Zupee Official site, or from Play Store and App Store. The best thing about this game is you can also play and win real cash.
Several traditional games can be played indoors, including board games like Ludo and Carrom, chess, card games like Rummy and Bridge, and word games like Scrabble. Moreover, these games are entertaining and culturally significant, offering a glimpse into the region’s heritage.
Playing games like Ludo helps develop strategic thinking, planning, and decision-making skills. It also encourages patience and turn-taking, promotes social interaction, and enhances cognitive skills like focus and problem-solving.
Digital versions of traditional games like Zupee Ludo enhance the gaming experience by offering many exclusive features. These include online multiplayer options, diverse themes, interactive interfaces, and the convenience of playing anytime, anywhere. They also enable players to connect with a global community, adding to the excitement and competition.