What am I talking about?

Pithooooo!!

For those born in the 70s and 80s, this was one of the most popular neighborhood/boring vacation evenings/bunking tuition evenings games.

For those who are not familiar with the game: it involves two teams, one team arranges that precarious tower of road-side pebbles and the other team has to bring it down with a tennis-ball, after which pandemonium ensues. The “arranger team” has to disperse and run as fast as possible and the other team has to hit the opposite team with the ball. Thrilling!!

I assure you there are very few things more fun on a summer vacation when you are 12 than running blindedly from a blood-thirsty opponent armed with a very toxic-green and bouncy tennis ball. And boy does it hurt on impact.

Speaking of games, the other day I got thinking of all the other games we used to play. Here is a short list.

Oonch neech ka Paapdaa: Retarded game of two teams on territorial grounds. One team chooses higher or lower ground and teases the other team members by setting foot on its level. Presuming it is a child’s take on territory battles.

Dark room: A favorite in birthday parties. I still think it is a sneaky boys’ game as they try to grab girls in unlit corners.

Kho-kho: Needs no description.

Pakdan-Pakdayee: One person goes to “Den” and has to run after pesky friends trying to get them “out”.

Chhupan Chhupayee: My favorite game.

Any more?

Pity now I hardly see any of these games being played in the kolony neighborhoods but then again, maybe I am running in the wrong circles.