“KREEDA — Uncovering the games of ancient India”, Sampadananda Mishra, April 23, 2024:

“Sports and games have always played a significant role in human culture, serving as a source of recreation, community bonding, and even spiritual expression. In ancient India, sports held an essential place in society, integrated into education and daily life. Contrary to popular belief, games like polo, tennis, football, and cricket are not modern inventions; ancient India had a rich tradition of sports that not only entertained but also helped to maintain physical fitness and social cohesion.

Ancient Indian texts such as the Harivansha, Varnaratnākara, Manasollasa, and many other texts contain detailed descriptions of hundreds of sports, showcasing the depth and diversity of games played in bygone eras. These texts suggest that sports were not only a source of amusement but also a crucial aspect of religious and cultural festivities. The Shrimad Bhagavatam, an epic narrative describing the life of Bhagavan Krishna, includes several instances of sports and games in its stories, illustrating how they were in practice in ancient Indian society.

To better understand the types of sports in ancient India, we can categorize them into four groups…..”

Read the full article at Sampadanandamishra.medium.com