Introduction
Greetings, young adventurers. Welcome to this other interesting session from Best preschool franchise in India, Makoons Preschool, where we combine learning and play into a single journey of joy. Today, we will explore the realm of sports and discover the various national games of India and other countries around the world.
This time, we will focus on understanding what national sports are, how different countries determine which sport will represent them, and whether India has a national sport, along with historical facts.
What Is a National Game?
A game or sport that is celebrated and adored by the citizens of a particular country is said to be their national game. It acts as a testament to the love the people have for that game or sport. Every country chooses something that represents their culture, history & achievements.
For example:
- Brazil’s national game is football (they even call it “the beautiful game”).
- Sumo wrestling is Japan’s national game.
- Rugby (a very energetic game) is adored in New Zealand.
- India? Hmm… let’s solve this riddle!
The Major Problem: What is the National Sport of India?
Many claim that the national sports game of India is Hockey. Why? Because India’s hockey team used to be the world’s best. They have 8 Olympic gold medals to their name- including six in a row from 1928 to 1956! But is there a national game in India? Here’s the twist: India has no official national sport.
Why is There No National Game in India?
Picture being forced to choose one ice-cream flavor as your absolute favorite for the rest of your life. Tough, right? India has countless sports that are enjoyed in different states:
- Punjab goes crazy over Kabaddi.
- West Bengal is football’s biggest fan.
- Gujarat is a dandiya enthusiast (sticks + dancing = Fun)
- So India’s answer is, “Let’s give credit to all sports.”
A Brief Account Of The Evolution Of Sports In India:
Buckle up in your imagination because we are time-traveling.
1. Ancient India: Games from the Past
Gilli-Danda:
Literally a “stick and a peg”, is a game reminiscent of long-lost cricket ancestors!
Pittu:
A ball is tossed onto a pile of stones.
Mallakhamb:
Pole gymnastics—the kind that would impress even monkeys.
2. Warrior Games with Kings and Queens
Archery:
Masters like Prince Arjuna (from the Mahabharata) participated.
Chess:
Invented in India! It was called chaturanga (meaning “four divisions” of the army).
3. British Rule: Arrival of New Games
Hockey:
India’s team became world champions. Players like Major Dhyan Chand (the “Wizard of Hockey”) amazed everyone.
Cricket:
It started as a British game, but India made it super famous.
4. Modern India: Sports for Everyone
Cricket:
Stars like Virat Kohli and Mithali Raj are heroes.
Badminton:
PV Sindhu smashes shuttlecocks like a rocket.
Kabaddi:
An energetic sport where players chant, “Kabaddi, kabaddi!”
Amazing Facts About the Country’s National Game (and Sports!)
National Sports Day of India On Which Day?
August 29 is celebrated as National Sports Day of India. It’s the birthday of Major Dhyan Chand, the hockey legend.
Hockey’s Golden Era: India won 8 Olympic gold medals in hockey—no country has more.
State Games:
Manipur: Polo (played on ponies) is their state game.
Kerala: Vallam Kali (snake boat races) during Onam.
Kabaddi World Cup: Over 50 countries play kabaddi now.
Why Hockey is Not a National Game Of India?
Even though India hasn’t officially declared it, hockey feels special because:
Olympic Dominance: India ruled hockey for decades: Indians have been Supreme in claiming Gold for every Olympic game.
Major Dhyan Chand: He once scored 3 goals in 6 minutes during a match. People thought his stick had a magic power.
Cultural Pride: Schools, clubs, and villages still play hockey today.
Also Read Our Blog of 20 dry fruits names in English and Hindi To Teach Kids .
How to Make Sports Super Fun for Kids:
Super fun activities catering to children while engaging them in sports emphasize the enjoyment aspects of sporting events. Sports aren’t only rules to follow; they consist of fun, laughing, creativity, and exciting experiences. Here are a few of them:
Activities can easily be turned into an adventure.
Magic Hockey: Play pretend check. The hockey ball is not a hockey ball but in fact, a golden snitch(Harry Potter Reference) that needs to be captured.
Kabaddi Quest: The Good old days when a brave raider stole treasures from dragon caves.
Sports Equipment can easily be done by yourself.
Stick Hockey: A standard broomstick accompanied by a rolled-up sock in place of the ball.
Balloon Badminton: Use of paper plates as rackets and balloons for badminton.
Acknowledge efforts rather than focusing on who came second or first.
Love Jar: Every time your kid tries something new, add a star origami into the jar.
Dance Breaks: After every 10 minutes of play, have a 1-minute dance party.
Parent Tip: Organize a Backyard Mini-Olympics. Games like sack races, ball toss, and “balance a book on your head” race.
Now, Let’s Play India’s National Game – Hockey!
Step 1: Create a hockey stick using cardboard and tape.
Step 2: Choose a small ball or crumpled paper as the puck.
Step 3: Grab some shoes or books and set up two goals.
Step 4: Play with siblings or take stuffed toys and siblings as teammates.. Don’t forget to yell, GOAL.
Conclusion
Whether it’s hockey, cricket, or dancing like a peacock, sports make us strong, happy, and brave. While India doesn’t have one national game, we’re lucky to have so many games to enjoy. At Makoons Preschool, we believe learning should be joyful and delicious. Try the quizzes, play the games, and share your new knowledge with friends.
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