Gilli-danda facts for kids

Gilli-danda is a fun outdoor game played by children and teenagers, especially in India and Pakistan. It's a bit like cricket or baseball, but instead of a ball, players use two wooden sticks: a larger one called the danda and a smaller, oval-shaped one called the gilli. Many people believe Gilli-danda might even be one of the oldest games that inspired cricket!

What is Gilli-danda?

Gilli-danda is a traditional game that has been enjoyed for many years. It doesn't need a special field or expensive equipment, just two sticks and some open space. This makes it easy for kids to play almost anywhere.

The Gilli and the Danda

The game gets its name from the two main pieces of equipment. The danda is the longer stick, usually about the size of a small baseball bat or cricket bat. It's used for hitting.

The gilli is the smaller stick. It's shaped a bit like a tiny oval, with pointed or tapered ends. This unique shape helps it fly through the air when hit.

How to Play Gilli-danda

Gilli-danda is usually played between two teams. The goal is to hit the gilli as far as possible using the danda.

Starting the Game

One player from the hitting team places the gilli on the ground. They then use the danda to gently tap one of the gilli's tapered ends. This makes the gilli flip up into the air.

Hitting the Gilli

While the gilli is airborne, the same player tries to hit it hard with the danda, just like hitting a cricket ball. The aim is to send the gilli flying as far as possible.

Fielding and Outs

Players from the opposing team are called fielders. Their job is to catch the gilli before it touches the ground. If a fielder catches the gilli before it lands, the hitter is out!

If the gilli isn't caught, the distance it travels is measured. The team that hits the gilli the farthest usually wins the round or gets points based on the distance.

Keeping the Game Going

If the gilli isn't caught, the game continues. The fielders might try to throw the gilli back towards a designated spot or the hitter. If they miss, the hitter gets another chance to hit the gilli from where it landed.

History and Popularity

Gilli-danda has been played for centuries. It was especially popular in India and Pakistan during the 1970s and 1980s. Even today, many children and adults still enjoy playing this traditional game, keeping its spirit alive. It's a great way to have fun outdoors and stay active!

Images for kids

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  Two boys playing gillidanda on the ghats of the Ganga river in Varanasi, India.

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  The boy on left is about to strike the gilli with the danda, while the one on right is fielding.