Remembering the Traditional Games of the Santhal Tribe: From Soil to Play

Abstract

The traditional games of the Santhal tribe of India represent a profound integration of play, ecology and cultural rituals. The study documents how these games are deeply embedded in the socio-ritual fabric of community life. The study also examines their current status and relationship to folklore. Through qualitative ethnographic methods that included semi-structured interviews with 50 participants across generations, the research documents a diverse array of games such as Kati, Disom Sendra and Pusi Pusi. Findings reveal that the games are not merely recreational but are deeply embedded in the social-ritual fabric of Santhal life. They serve as tools for physical training, moral instruction and cultural transmission. Crafted from sustainable and natural materials, they reflect a profound ecological consciousness and are intrinsically linked to agricultural cycles and community festivals. However, the study identifies a significant decline in their practices which is driven by modernization, the influence of Western sports and digital entertainment. This erosion threatens the transmission of intangible cultural heritage. The study proposes practical implications for integrating these games into educational curricula, cultural policy and sustainable tourism initiatives to ensure their continuity. This study contributes to the preservation of Santhal heritage and the role of traditional games in maintaining cultural identity.