Pittu, also known as "seven stones," is one of India's oldest traditional games. This engaging game revolves around a ball and seven stacked stones, which the striker team aims to knock down. It holds significant cultural value and is referenced in ancient texts like the Bhagavata Purana, which dates back over 5,000 years. In an effort to revive this game, Madhya Pradesh is set to introduce Pittu as an official sport in all colleges starting in the academic year 2024-25, promoting physical activity among students and preserving cultural heritage.
The revival of Pittu aligns with the Madhya Pradesh government's broader initiative to reconnect students with Indian traditions, culture, and values. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of this game in his "Mann Ki Baat" program in January 2021, encouraging efforts to bring more attention to traditional sports. The state aims to use Pittu to teach essential skills such as teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness, while integrating narratives from the lives of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna into the educational framework.
According to the official rules, Pittu is played on a field measuring 26 meters by 14 meters with two teams, each consisting of six players, including four substitutes. The game is divided into two halves of 10 minutes each. The objective is to knock down the stacked stones, known as Pittu, with a ball and then attempt to restore the stack while the opposing team tries to hit them with the ball.
Alongside its inclusion in colleges, the Madhya Pradesh government has plans to introduce Pittu in schools. A government circular will soon be issued to ensure that students from various age groups can participate in the game, allowing them to learn about its cultural and historical significance.
The revitalization of Pittu is part of a larger educational strategy to integrate lessons about Indian culture, history, and the teachings of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna into the schooling system. The state government recently announced that insights from these religious figures will be included in the curriculum. The General Administration Department of Madhya Pradesh is also promoting lectures on topics related to Indian philosophy.
Pittu has previously been featured in various competitive events, including the National Games, where it was showcased. Goa has its own state-level Pittu federation, and competitions have been organized in several regions. Additionally, from 2015 to 2016, it was included in the Lagori World Cup, an international version of the game.
Despite the enthusiasm for Pittu, some critics, such as Congress spokesperson Kunal Chaudhary, have raised concerns. They argue that promoting a game not featured in international events like the Olympics or Commonwealth Games could distract students from more recognized sports. There is an ongoing debate about whether the focus should remain on traditional games instead of globally acknowledged sports.
Q1. What is Pittu and its cultural significance?
Answer: Pittu, also known as "seven stones," is a traditional Indian game with deep cultural roots, mentioned in texts like the Bhagavata Purana. It is being revived to promote physical fitness and Indian heritage.
Q2. How will Pittu be incorporated into education in Madhya Pradesh?
Answer: Pittu will be introduced in colleges and schools as part of a strategy to integrate Indian culture and historical teachings, enhancing students' physical and teamwork skills.
Q3. What are the basic rules of playing Pittu?
Answer: Pittu is played on a field with two teams of six players. The aim is to knock down a stack of seven stones with a ball and restore them while avoiding being hit by the opposing team's ball.
Q4. Has Pittu been played competitively before?
Answer: Yes, Pittu has participated in competitive events, including the National Games and the Lagori World Cup, showcasing its popularity and historical significance.
Q5. What concerns are there about introducing Pittu in education?
Answer: Critics argue that focusing on traditional games like Pittu may divert attention from internationally recognized sports, questioning the educational priorities in sports curriculum.
Question 1: What traditional game is being revived in Madhya Pradesh?
A) Kabaddi
B) Pittu
C) Kho-Kho
D) Cricket
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many players are in a Pittu team?
A) Four
B) Five
C) Six
D) Seven
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What is the main objective of Pittu?
A) To score points
B) To knock down the stacked stones
C) To run the fastest
D) To avoid being hit
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which notable figure mentioned Pittu in his program?
A) Rahul Gandhi
B) Narendra Modi
C) Arvind Kejriwal
D) Amit Shah
Correct Answer: B
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