In today's fast-paced digital world, where screens dominate daily life, there is a growing longing for human connection and meaningful social interactions. And the surprising solution is— Board Games! Once a favourite form of family entertainment, these games are undergoing a renaissance,captivating both young and old alike,as people rediscover the joy of playing together, face-to-face.
The resurgence of board games can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, in the age of social media which often fosters superficial relationships, they provide an opportunity for in-person interaction. Gathering around a table with friends and family to play a board game encourages meaningful conversations, laughter, and the creation of lasting memories. The shared experience of strategizing, competing, and cooperating strengthens bonds and builds a sense of camaraderie that virtual experiences simply cannot replicate.
The appeal of board games spans generations in India. From classic favourites like Ludo, Snakes and Ladders and Chess to Indianised versions of global hits like Tambola and Jenga, there is a game to suit every taste and age-group. Families often bond over these boards, passing on the tradition of from one generation to the next.
Actor Lakshmi Manchu, who loves board games, says, “They are a great way to have intimate and amazing conversations. They bring families together and are a great way to have fun. I enjoy p l a y i n g P i c t i o n a r y , Taboo, Scrabble, Monopoly, Chess and more. I always keep a big set of board games in my theatre room, so if any-one is interested, I pass them on.”“Board games help young and adults alike to bond. As a mental health practitioner, I have seen that they help create connections. More subtly, they help us understand social and emotional cues. A chess game requires players to read the opponents’ minds through his moves and body language. Business and Monopoly are about making lifechoices. These games help usunderstand the environment around us; but more importantly, they teach us to live in the moment and maximise joy t o g e t h e r, ”says Nupur D Pandey, emotional intelligence coach.
Nandhini V, a communications senior manager at an MNC and aboard game enthusiast and designer, recalls the profound impact of such games on her life. “I discovered the happy world of board games at an early age thanks to my grandmother, and they have remained a big part of my life,” she shares. She says they bring people together and foster joy. “You see a fun side to people across generations —it's like meeting a younger version of my parents when I'm playing with them.”
Her favourites include timeless classics like Pallanguzhi, Catan,Carcassonne, Life, J'accuse!, and Rummikub. Recently, Nandhini added a crowd-funded gem to her collection, Bharata 600 BC — an intriguing and slightly complex epic strategy game celebrating ancient Indian history. “I can't stop talking about this game and recruiting people to play with me. It's an adventure conceptualized, designed, and made in India,” she says excitedly.
The positive impact of board games on mental health and social well-being is not restricted to personal relationships. Many Indian companies have recognized the benefits of incorporating board games into their team-building and employee engagement activities. Businesses have found that board games facilitate effective communication, problem-solving and teamwork among employees, resulting in improved productivity and job satisfaction.
The future of board games in India looks promising, with a continuous inflow of innovative games that cater to diverse interests and cultural sensibilities. As technology continues to advance, board games serve as a counterbalance, reminding us of the value of personal connections and enriching our lives with laughter and shared experiences.
