The Journey of Pachisi and Ludo:
When you
think of classic board games, Ludo is probably one of the first that comes to
mind. It's fun, simple, and a staple in many households across the world. But
did you know that Ludo actually evolved from an ancient Indian game called Pachisi?
This traditional game, dating back centuries, holds deep cultural roots and
offers much more than just entertainment.
In this
article, we explore the fascinating journey of Pachisi, how it transformed into
Ludo, the differences between the two, and why both continue to be popular
today. Whether you're a board game enthusiast or someone curious about India's
cultural heritage, you're in for a nostalgic and informative read.
Also, know about some of the Ancient Games which are internationally recognised.
Origins of Pachisi: India’s Royal Board Game
Pachisi
originated in India around the 6th century CE. Its name comes from the Hindi
word "Pachis", meaning twenty-five — the highest number you
could score using cowrie shells, which served as dice. Unlike today's
mass-produced board games, Pachisi was often hand-drawn on cloth or carved into
palace courtyards.
Even
emperors were fascinated by the game. Mughal Emperor Akbar was famously known
for playing Pachisi on life-sized boards with human pieces at Fatehpur Sikri.
The game was not just entertainment; it was strategy, planning, and diplomacy
rolled into one.
How Pachisi is Played
- Players: 2 to 4, sometimes played in
teams.
- Board: A cross-shaped pattern, often
on cloth or a flat surface.
- Dice: Cowrie shells (usually 6 or
7).
- Goal: Move all four tokens from the
starting point to the central square by rolling the shells.
The roll of
cowrie shells determines your movement. The game involves safe zones, capturing
opponents' pieces, and strategizing to block or protect moves. It's a game of
both chance and calculated risks.
Cowrie Shell Roll Values in Pachisi
- 0 open sides = 25 points (called
a "Pachisi")
- 1 open side = 1 point
- 2 open sides = 2 points
- 3 open sides = 3 points
- 4 open sides = 4 points
- 5 open sides = 10 points
- 6 open sides = 12 points
- 7 open sides = 14 points
These values
bring an element of unpredictability and challenge, making every game unique.
Ludo: The British Simplification
In the late
1800s, British colonists encountered Pachisi and decided to simplify it for
Western audiences. In 1896, they patented a version of the game in England,
calling it Ludo. Instead of cowrie shells, a standard six-sided die was
used, and the board was square-shaped, which made the game easier to produce
and understand.
Ludo soon
gained popularity worldwide, becoming a beloved family game, especially among
children. Its colourful layout and easy-to-learn rules made it a staple in
homes around the globe.
How Ludo is Played
- Players: 2 to 4
- Board: Square with four coloured
bases (red, blue, green, yellow)
- Dice: One six-sided die
- Goal: Move all four tokens around
the board and into the home triangle
You need to
roll a six to bring a token into play. If your token lands on a square occupied
by an opponent, their token goes back to their base. It’s a game of quick moves
and lucky rolls rather than long-term strategy.
Key Differences: Pachisi vs. Ludo
|
Feature |
Pachisi |
Ludo |
|
Origin |
Ancient
India (6th century CE) |
British
adaptation (1896) |
|
Dice Type |
Cowrie
shells |
Six-sided
die |
|
Board
Design |
Cross-shaped,
often on cloth |
Square,
colorful printed board |
|
Strategy |
High
(requires planning) |
Low to
moderate (luck-driven) |
|
Cultural
Relevance |
Deep
Indian cultural roots |
Global
family game appeal |
|
Player
Mode |
Solo and
Team |
Solo only |
|
Movement
Complexity |
Variable
based on shell rolls |
Standard
1-6 die roll |
|
|
|
|
Pachisi is
more strategic and culturally rich, while Ludo is simplified and fast-paced,
suitable for all age groups.
Modern Comeback: Ludo on Screens, Pachisi in Museums
In recent
years, Ludo has seen a massive revival thanks to mobile gaming. During the
COVID-19 lockdowns, apps like Ludo King brought families and friends
together virtually. The game is now one of the most downloaded casual games in
India and continues to entertain millions.
Meanwhile,
Pachisi is also experiencing a quiet revival. Cultural organizations and
schools are reintroducing the game as a part of India’s heritage education.
Handmade wooden boards and cowrie shell sets are available online, and some
museums even feature the game in exhibitions about ancient Indian traditions.
Final Thoughts: Two Sides of the Same Dice
Whether
you're tossing cowrie shells in Pachisi or rolling a die in Ludo, you're
engaging with a rich tradition of Indian gaming. Pachisi represents deep-rooted
strategy and heritage, while Ludo offers light-hearted fun and accessibility.
Both games
have their charm and purpose. Ludo may be the easier pick for a casual family
night, but Pachisi opens a window into the intellect and creativity of ancient
India.