‘Game boards’ carved on rocks in Kasaragod hint at age-old yen for leisure
Archaeologists have discovered ancient rock-cut game boards in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, India, resembling traditional 14-pit games. These findings suggest that prehistoric communities in the region engaged in structured recreational activities, though further scientific dating is required.
Why it matters
The discovery provides new insights into the cultural and social history of prehistoric human societies in South India.
‘Game boards’ carved on rocks in Kasaragod hint at age-old yen for leisure left Historian Nandakumar Koroth (right) and archaeology enthusiast Satheesan Kaliyana near the rock carvings at Madikkai in Kasaragod district, believed to offer clues to the gaming traditions of prehistoric communities. arranged The Hindu https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/5jsy2r/article71612313.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/11435_22_10_2026_19_4_50_1_IMG_20261020_WA0030.JPG arranged Archaeological researcher Dr Nandakumar Koroth (right) and local researcher Satheesan Kaliyana examine ancient rock-cut Manjadikkali game boards at a site in Madikkai in Kasaragod district, believed to offer clues to the gaming traditions of prehistoric communities Six such ‘games,’ resembling the Manjadippala or Kadippala boards, were found carved on rocks, hinting that people engaged in recreational activities thousands of years ago. However, doubts have been raised about their antiquity and purpose.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in