Chaupar
Chaupar is a traditional Indian board game that has been played for centuries. It is similar to modern-day backgammon and involves two to four players. The game is played on a cross-shaped board, and players use cowrie shells as dice to determine their moves. The objective is to move all of one's pieces around the board and into the home area before the opponents do.
Historically, Chaupar was popular among royalty and was often played in palaces. It is mentioned in ancient texts and has cultural significance in Indian literature, including the epic Mahabharata. The game not only serves as entertainment but also reflects strategic thinking and social interaction among players.