Before smartphones and gaming consoles dominated, childhood was all about running around outside, basking in the sun, and playing games that needed nothing but sheer energy and imagination. These games were not only enjoyable—they taught us teamwork, strategy, and perseverance. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about the top 10 outdoor games every Indian child grew up playing!
1. KABADDI – The Ultimate Test of Strength & Stamina
“Kabaddi Kabaddi!” – The slogan still rings in our hearts. This ancient Indian game was all about breath control, agility, and raw courage. Played in schoolyards or village grounds, Kabaddi was (and continues to be) a national passion.
Why we loved it: No equipment required, just pure energy and quick reflexes!
2. LAGORI (SEVEN STONES) – The Perfect Balance of Strategy & Fun
Seven flat stones, a tennis ball, and two groups—that was everything it required to enjoy hours of thrill. The excitement of toppling the stones and then evading the opposing team to rebuild the stack could not be compared.
Fun Fact: Also called Pittu in North India and Sitoliya in certain parts!
3. KHO-KHO – The Speed & Accuracy Game
Seated in a line, tapping the ground, and yelling “Kho!” to mark the next pursuer—Kho-Kho was a speed test and a team effort. The highlight? The thrilling dives to evade being touched!
Why it dominated: Quick and needed no equipment—just an open area.
4. GILLI DANDA – The Desi Version of Cricket
Prior to cricket bats, there was Gilli Danda—a wooden stick (danda) and a little tapered piece (gilli). The objective? Get the gilli as far away as possible and run. Simpler times!
Nostalgia Alert: Most of us broke windows (and got in trouble) playing this!
5. CHAIN CHAIN (LOCK & KEY) – The Ultimate Chase Game
A combination of Tag and Hide & Seek, players in this game created a human chain to tag others. The longer people were tagged, the longer the chain was!
Best Memory: When the chain got broken during running!
6. HOPSCOTCH (STAPOO) – The Classic Sidewalk Game
Chalk-drawn numbered squares, throwing a rock, hopping on one foot—Stapoo was every child’s delight. Extra points if you could master the challenging turns!
Why it was special: It was among the limited games that both girls and boys played with each other equally.
7. MARBLES (KANCHA) – The Original Collectible Game
Blinging marbles of glass (kanchas) were not toys, but treasures! What to do? Knock your opponent’s marble out of the ring and steal it!
Pro Move: Mastering the “diamond kancha” for unstoppable victories!
8. DOG & THE BONE – The Ultimate Quick Reflex Game
Two groups, one object (a handkerchief or a tiny stick), and a middle “den.” The mad dash to snatch the “bone” and return without being caught was raw adrenaline!
Why it was awesome: Quick, short, and very competitive!
9. CHOR POLICE (COPS & ROBBERS) – The Great Indian Hide & Seek
We played Chor (bandits), the other Police (cops). The objective? Hide, pursue, and capture—with plenty of melodramatic escapes!
Iconic Moment: The “Jailbreak” when a team member saved you!
10. AANKH MICHOLI (BLIND MAN’S BUFF) – The Classic Blindfold Game
One player blindfolded as the “denner” attempting to tag others while everyone teased them with cries of “Aankh Micholi!” The confusion of bumping around and quick reaches made it funny!
Why it was fun: No equipment required, just a scarf and plenty of laughter!
A Simpler, More Active Childhood
These games made us fit, alert, and socially engaged—all without screens! Unfortunately, too many of them are disappearing from our lives, but the memories are golden.
Additional Reading – TOP 10 OUTDOOR GAMES FOR FAMILY GATHERINGS
