Chaturanga: This traditional Indian board game is the precursor to modern-day chess
The charm associated with Chaturanga is undeniable even in the era of digital, online games. Not only are they extremely fun and engaging, they are also an integral part of our culture. They enhance creativity and logic-based cognitive skills without overstimulating one’s senses. Archaeological evidence has shown that board games have been a part of Indian culture since the Indus Valley Civilisation. In ancient India, Chaturanga was one of the most popular in this genre which laid the foundation for shatranj and even modern-day chess. Read on to learn about its history and origin.
History of Chaturanga
The Sanskrit word ‘Chaturanga’ translates to ‘having four limbs or parts’ and in ancient Indian poetry, it was often used to describe an army. The word was first used in the Mahabharata where it referred to the four divisions of an army: Elephantry, Cavalry, Chariotry and Infantry. Like how an army plans an attack using logic and resources, this game is based on the premise of developing military strategy. Although there are debates about this game’s time of origin, most historians believe that Chaturanga emerged during the Gupta Empire in the 6th century CE.
How was Chaturanga played?
The exact rules of Chaturanga still remain unknown as this game was developed and modified into different forms over time. However, some important information has been retained. The setup of the game mirrors the ancient formation called ‘akshauhini’. According to the Mahabharata, this formation typically included 21870 chariots, 21870 elephants, 65610 horses and 109350 infantry, a total of 218,700 warriors. In the game of Chaturanga, this ratio is broken down to 1 chariot, 1 elephant, 3 cavalry and 5 infantry soldiers. This was reflected in the game as well.
Chaturanga used to be played on an ‘ashtapada’, which was an 8x8 uncheckered board. The main pieces were similar to those of modern-day chess. They were raja (king), mantri/ senapati (minister/ general), ratha (chariot) and gaja (elephant.) Each of these pieces can proceed in a particular direction. For example, the raja moves exactly like the king in chess, one step in any direction (vertical, horizontal or diagonal.) Other pieces like the mantri moves only one single step diagonally in any direction. The primary objective of this game was to checkmate the opponent’s main piece, the raja.
Interesting facts about Chaturanga
- The word ‘Chaturanga’ first appeared in the Indian epic, Mahabharata.
- Ever since its emergence, this game has travelled across borders and has been interpreted in slightly different ways. It is the base of shatranj and modern-day chess.
- The first archaeological evidence of its existence was found in the Indus Valley Civilisation’s city of Lothal. It included pieces on a board which had striking resemblances to those of chess.