Introduction

Kauri Khel is a traditional and popular game played in Assam with cowrie shells. These shells are tossed onto a flat surface, and the outcome is determined by how they land—either with the concave (flat) or convex (curved) side facing up. Players score points based on the pattern of the shells' landings, with different combinations resulting in different point values.

often played during festivals like Bihu (Makar Sankranti), bringing together children and adults in a spirit of fun and camaraderie. It teaches basic counting, fairness, and patience, and is an integral part of Assamese social and cultural traditions. However it’s also observed that different parts of India also have different variations of the game, it has a factor of nostalgia for older generations

Cultural Significance

Cowrie shells are considered auspicious and are often used in religious rituals. They are associated with the goddess Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) and are often used in rituals to invoke good fortune, health, and wealth. In the Mahabharata, the game of “Shatranj” (a precursor to chess) and other gambling-related games also featured cowrie shells, tying them to the concept of fate and chance.

Since the shell has such significance, the game is often played during festive occasions to invoke blessings for abundance and success. The game itself may have originated as part of spiritual rituals meant to predict good or bad omens or to divine the will of the gods for the upcoming harvest year

Significance in Assamese Culture

The cowrie game holds special importance as part of the Bihu festival and other local harvest celebrations. During Bihu, the Assamese people engage in traditional games and dances to celebrate the arrival of the new harvest, and the cowrie game is a prominent feature of the celebrations.

During Bihu

The game is often played by children and adults alike. It is a part of the larger set of folk games (such as “Hapun Khel”, “Gosoka Khel”, etc.) that are commonly seen during this time.
The symbolism of cowrie shells — as well as the act of tossing them for good fortune — reflects the Assamese connection to nature, crops, and the blessing of a bountiful harvest.

Modern Day Relevance

While the traditional cowrie game has somewhat faded from mainstream popularity, it is still enjoyed in rural areas and cultural settings. Modern adaptations & more interactive gameplay are ways to revive the traditional game while introducing it to newer generations.

Additionally, this serves as a way to preserve cultural heritage, and reviving these ancient games is a constant effort by the Govt. of India (MyGovt) could also serve to preserve traditional knowledge in an increasingly digital world.

Concept

The game can be played by all age groups however in an attempt to make it attractive to today's game landscape, the game would offer a different experience when played in the dark.

each side of the shell would have different glow in the dark paint and the mat would be equipped with lights. The game still be played during the day and is so modular that the user can play anywhere anytime anyhow.

Game Play

Since this is a traditional game across Assam, but can also be seen prevalent in different parts of the country. The rules can vary slightly depending on regional customs but they follow a general set of guidelines