Diplomatic games
The game of pallankuzhi referred to in Slice of life ("The Antigua Connection", June 18), played in Tamil Nadu, was prevalent in Kerala also. In Kerala it was known as kuzhipara (para in Malayalam means pebbles). The cavities of the kuzhipara frame are being filled by manchadi kurus, also known as manchadi paras. These are seeds of manchadi trees, small, tiny and deep red in colour. The trees are commonly seen in Kerala. We used to play this game during our childhood, also during Shivaratri nights.
K.R. Sudhakaran Pillai,
Kochi
Gangadhar's column is newsy and juicy. The latest on pallankuzhi and warri of Antigua made delightful reading. His relating it to the ping-pong diplomacy of the past is relevant. Games were originally played between countries to promote good will and friendship. Even my grandson and granddaughter are interested in playing pallankuzhi. It is not as though, as the writer has pointed out, modern children are not interested in the game.
K. Panchapagesan.
Ridgewood, the U.S.
Gangadhar's brief description of the South Indian game Pallankuzhi also known as "Pandyanguzhy" brought back nostalgic memories of my childhood. Modern technology has made several such games outdated and it is sad that the children of this era have no chance to play such games.
V. Pandy,
Tuticorin
Gangadhar's article was excellent. The comparison between Warri and Pallankuzhi was good. His old memories of Shivaratri made one nostaligic. One should accept traditional links to break the ice in diplomacy.
K. Ragavan,
Sharjah
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