Lagori Sport

Have you ever played a game that combines teamwork, strategy, and a bit of adventure? Lagori, also known as Seven Stones, is one such traditional Indian game that has been enjoyed by children for centuries. It’s a fun outdoor game that requires skill, speed, and cooperation. Let’s dive into the world of Lagori and discover its charm.

What is Lagori?

Lagori is a team game played with a ball and seven flat stones stacked on top of each other. The objective is simple yet exciting: one team tries to knock down the pile of stones with the ball, and then rebuild it while the opposing team attempts to prevent them by throwing the ball at them. It’s a game that keeps players on their toes and encourages quick thinking.

Names of Lagori across India

Lagori is known by various names in different regions of India:

Pittu: Commonly used in Haryana and Punjab.
Satoliya: Known by this name in Rajasthan.
Lingorcha: Called so in Maharashtra.
Ezhu Kallu: In Tamil Nadu, it’s referred to as Ezhu Kallu.

These diverse names reflect the game’s widespread popularity across the country.

How to play Lagori

Lagori is played between two teams, each consisting of a minimum of three and a maximum of nine players. The game requires seven flat stones and a rubber ball.

Setting Up the Game

Stack the Stones: Place the seven stones on top of each other to form a small tower.
Divide into Teams: Split the players into two teams: the attacking team and the defending team.

Gameplay

The attacking team gets nine chances (three players taking three chances each) to knock down the pile of stones from a distance of about 20 feet using the ball.
If they succeed in knocking down the stones, their goal is to rebuild the stack.
Meanwhile, the defending team retrieves the ball and tries to hit the attacking players below the knees to get them out.

Winning the Game

If the attacking team successfully rebuilds the stone tower without getting all their players out, they score a point and continue as the attacking team.
If the defending team manages to get all the attacking players out before they can rebuild the tower, the teams switch roles.

Skills Required

Playing Lagori helps develop several skills:

Throwing Accuracy: Aiming to knock down the stone stack.
Agility: Dodging the ball thrown by opponents.
Teamwork: Coordinating with teammates to rebuild the stack or strategize defense.
Strategic Thinking: Deciding when to rebuild the stack and when to dodge.

Lagori in Modern Times

While Lagori has ancient roots, it has not been forgotten. Efforts have been made to revive and promote this traditional game. For instance, the Indian Lagori Premier League was established to popularise the sport. Additionally, the game has gained international attention, with countries like Turkey and Vietnam hosting tournaments.

Conclusion

Lagori is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of culture, teamwork, and fun. Whether you’re playing in a village square or a city park, the excitement of knocking down the stones and rebuilding them while dodging the ball remains unparalleled. So, gather your friends, set up those seven stones, and experience the timeless joy of Lagori!