10 Best Games Played in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, a state rich in history and culture, is also a vibrant hub for various games and sports deeply rooted in the day-to-day lives of its people. From Varanasi’s narrow gullies to Lucknow’s sprawling grounds, every nook and corner of this state buzzes with energy and enthusiasm for indoor and outdoor games.

Among these, Ludo stands out as the number one indoor game, not just for its simplicity and accessibility but also for bringing families and friends together. This makes it a beloved pastime across generations.

So, with this article, let’s talk about some outdoor and indoor games played in Uttar Pradesh and its different parts.

Outdoor Games Played in Uttar Pradesh

The culture of Uttar Pradesh is closely tied to its outdoor games, which serve as a means of entertainment and play a significant role in community bonding, physical fitness, and cultural continuity. Games like Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, Badminton Gilli-Danda, and Cricket are not just played for fun. They are celebrated, with many having historical significance and integral to local festivals and rituals.

Here’s a list of best games played in Uttar Pradesh:

Kho-Kho in Lucknow

Kho-Kho is one of those games played in Uttar Pradesh that holds a special place in the hearts of the people of this state, particularly in Lucknow, where it’s more than just a game; it’s a cultural heritage. The city boasts several top Kho-Kho playing grounds, a hub for local and national-level tournaments. While most grounds do not charge an entry fee, the atmosphere during a game is priceless. Lucknow is home to some of the top teams in the state, and official tournaments often take place here, drawing crowds from all over.

Official Kho-Kho Grounds in Lucknow

• K.D Singh Babu Stadium
• Lucknow University Grounds

Official Kho-Kho Tournaments in Lucknow

Several school, college, and club tournaments are organized throughout the year, providing a platform for Kho-Kho players to showcase their skills. Some of these are:

• Inter-College Kho-Kho Championships: Organized by universities and educational boards, these championships offer a competitive platform for college teams.
• State-Level Kho-Kho Championships: These championships see participation from teams across Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow, competing for state honors.
• National Kho-Kho Championships: While hosted in different cities each year, teams from Lucknow often participate, representing the state or their institutions at the national level.

Kabaddi in Meerut

Kabaddi, one of the traditional games played in Uttar Pradesh, holds the culture, especially in Meerut. The city’s passion for the game is evident in its numerous Kabaddi grounds, such as the Chaudhary Charan Singh Sports Stadium, where local and national players converge. While entry to these grounds is generally free, the crowds’ competitive spirit and enthusiasm create an electrifying experience. Meerut has produced top teams that compete in official tournaments, showcasing the city’s deep connection with sport.

Official Kabaddi Grounds in Meerut

• Sports Stadium
• Kailash Prakash

Official Kho-Kho Tournaments in Lucknow

Meerut is a regular participant in several kabaddi tournaments, ranging from local and state-level competitions to national championships:

• Uttar Pradesh State Kabaddi Championship
• All India Inter-University Kabaddi Championship
• Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Talent Hunt

Gilli-Danda in Agra

In Agra, the game of Gilli-Danda goes beyond mere play; it’s a legacy passed down through generations. This traditional game played in the shadows of the Taj Mahal, reflects the simple pleasures of life in Uttar Pradesh. There are no specific grounds or stadiums dedicated to Gilli-Danda in Agra or in other parts of India. The game’s beauty lies in its simplicity and the fact that it can be played almost anywhere, from backyards to open fields and alleyways. Though less formalized than other games to play in Uttar Pradesh, local competitions often occur, celebrating the game’s enduring appeal.

Badminton in Varanasi

Varanasi’s affinity for Badminton showcases the city’s modern sports culture while staying rooted in tradition. The city hosts numerous Badminton courts where amateurs and professionals can play, usually without any entry fee. Varanasi has cultivated top Badminton teams participating in state and national tournaments, reflecting the city’s burgeoning sports scene.

Official Badminton Courts in Varanasi

• Sigra Stadium
• Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Indoor Stadium

Official Badminton Tournaments in Varanasi

Varanasi hosts a variety of badminton tournaments throughout the year, ranging from local and district-level competitions to state and national qualifiers:

• District Badminton Championship
• Uttar Pradesh State Badminton Championships
• All India Inter-University Badminton Championship

Cricket in Kanpur

The next on our list of top games to play in Uttar Pradesh is Cricket. It is a national obsession that finds a fervent following in Kanpur. The city’s Green Park Stadium is a testament to the love for the game, hosting numerous domestic and international matches. Local grounds, often free to enter, are bustling with aspiring cricketers. Kanpur’s cricket teams, known for their spirited play, frequently compete in state and national championships, underscoring the city’s significant contribution to the sport in India.

Official Cricket Stadium in Kanpur

• Green Park Stadium
• Kamla Club Cricket Ground & University Grounds

Official Cricket Tournaments in Kanpur

Kanpur is a regular venue for several cricket tournaments, from local leagues to national championships:

• Ranji Trophy
• Vijay Hazare Trophy
• Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
• Local Leagues and Inter-School/College Tournaments

Indoor Games Played in Uttar Pradesh

The indoor games of Uttar Pradesh are as varied and culturally significant as their outdoor counterparts. From Ludo to Chess and Carrom, these popular games to play in Uttar Pradesh are not just pastimes but carry deep cultural meanings, facilitating social connections and strategic thinking.

Ludo: A Family Favorite

Ludo is from those top games to play in Uttar Pradesh that is beloved for its simplicity and the joy it brings to players of all ages. The game transcends age and social barriers and is often played in homes during leisure time and festivals. With the advent of technology, Ludo has also found a new platform for online games to play in UP, such as Zupee. It allows players to compete with others across distances for cash prizes, adding a modern twist to this traditional game.

Moreover, with various Zupee Ludo games, such as Ludo Supreme League, Ludo Supreme, Ludo Ninja, and Ludo Turbo, players can play with more fun and excitement.

Carrom: Striking Memories

Carrom, one of the popular games to play in Uttar Pradesh, is cherished for its ability to unite people. Its simple gameplay, requiring precision and strategy, has a special place in the hearts of Uttar Pradesh’s residents. Local tournaments often highlight the skill and competitiveness of the players, keeping the tradition alive and kicking. Considering the craze of these games, you can also play Carrom online on your smartphone. Look at the Carrom rules and Carrom tricks to win the game. 

Chess: The Game of Kings

Chess, with its strategic depth and intellectual challenge, enjoys a distinguished status among indoor games in Uttar Pradesh. It’s not just a game but a way to sharpen the mind, with numerous clubs and schools encouraging its play. The state hosts several tournaments annually, celebrating this game of intellect and foresight. However, today, you can play chess online on many gaming platforms, such as smartphones and PCs. Look at the best chess moves by the grandmasters!

Antakshari: A Musical Encounter

Antakshari is more than just a game; is a musical journey that ties people together, fostering a sense of community and cultural identity. The game is from those games played in Uttar Pradesh that are widely played during gatherings and festivals, with participants showcasing their knowledge of songs. While formal tournaments are rare, the game’s popularity endures, highlighting the rich musical heritage of Uttar Pradesh.

Card Games: A Cultural Staple

With variety and adaptability, card games, like trump cards, are one of the top games to play in Uttar Pradesh. They’re a source of entertainment and a means to socialize and celebrate occasions. While informal play is more common, card game tournaments occur, especially during Diwali, adding to the festive spirit.

Conclusion

Games in Uttar Pradesh, both indoor and outdoor, are more than just leisure activities. These games are into the cultural fabric of the state, serving as vehicles for social bonding, physical fitness, and artistic expression.

From Varanasi’s ancient alleys to Lucknow’s modern playgrounds, the love for these best games played in Uttar Pradesh transcends age, caste, and religion, uniting the people in a common thread of joy, competition, and camaraderie.

FAQs – Games Played in Uttar Pradesh