India's sporting landscape extends well beyond what we see in the grand stadiums and professional sporting events. The traditional Indian games – a significant component of the nation's sporting landscape – come from our roots and reflect familiar leisure pursuits that resonate across generations. Using road space, open spaces and enclosed spaces, on earth, concrete, tarmac, indoors, outdoors and anywhere else, skills vary from region to region – but many focus on collaboration, agility, attention and ingenuity over expensive gear.

Many also provide good excuses to keep ourselves busy and active. Kabaddi tests our agility and dexterity – the strength, balance and nerve! Kho-kho also needs agility and dexterity – to run, avoid and coordinate with teammates. Gilli danda demands precision, and games involving boards, beads and beads like pallanguzhi teach counting and planning. The names of these games and the rules may vary by states or regions, so they are all unique expressions of the diverse culture of India. Whether as a family activity, a school project, or a festival activity, the chances of a child "learning the game" are good with a little effort from you.