From Assam

KuKur Mekori is a traditional children’s game played in Assam, a northeastern state of India known for its rich cultural diversity and folk heritage.

This game reflects the innocence and creativity of Assamese rural life, where children play in open courtyards or fields, often inventing imaginative roles based on animals and human interactions. It playfully recreates the daily village scenes where animals and people coexist, blending imagination, coordination, and physical play.

The game is usually played in the evenings or during leisure hours when children gather after school.

Origin

Kukur Mekori has been a part of Assamese village childhood for generations. Passed down orally from older siblings and friends, it is not just a game but a reflection of rural storytelling and communal bonding.

In the traditional Assamese household, children often had limited toys, so games such as Kukur Mekori evolved as spontaneous, role-based plays using imagination and teamwork.

The inclusion of different roles—Manuh (Human), Kukur (Dog), Mekuri (Cat), and Burhi (Old Lady)—adds a dramatic element to the activity, making it both entertaining and educational.

The Setup

Number of Players: 6–12 (no fixed limit).

Age Group: 6–12 years (mixed age group).

Teams

Two leaders (Manuh or Humans) One Burhi (Old Lady)

Remaining children act as Kukur (Dogs) and Mekuri (Cats)

Children form a semi-circle and sit cross-legged (Padmasana) while the leaders conduct the game.

The Ground

The game is usually played in a courtyard, school ground, or open area. A clear open space of about 15–20 feet is ideal.

The layout

1.A semi-circle where children sit in Padmasana, holding their toes.

2.A centre area where the two leaders stand.

3.Zones where players will be placed depending on their ‘weight’ —

4.7–8 steps away → Mekuri (Cats)

5.4–5 steps away → Kukur (Dogs)

6.1–2 steps away → Burhi (Old Lady)

Materials required

No materials or equipment are required — only an open space. The simplicity of the game makes it accessible to all children.

The Play

Step 1 – Seating and Carrying

All children sit cross-legged in a semi-circle, holding their toes.

The two leaders (Humans) lift each child one by one by holding their arms.

Based on the child’s weight, they are placed at different

distances:

1.Lightweight (Mekuri/Cats) → 7–8 steps away

2.Medium weight (Kukur/Dogs) → 4–5 steps away

3.Heaviest (Burhi/Old Lady) → 1–2 steps away from the original place.

Step 2 – Role Play and Dialogue

Once all players are placed, a playful conversation begins:

1.Leaders (Humans): O’ burhi bogori dutaman khaungoi ne?

(“Hey old lady, can we go and have some berries?”)

2.Burhi (Old Lady): “Bhalkoi jabi, kukur ase!” (Go carefully,

dogs are there!)

The leaders then proceed toward the ‘dog’ zone.

Step 3 – Action and Chase

1.As the leaders move closer:

2.The Dogs shout: “Moi kham! Moi kham!” (“I will eat! I will eat!”)

3.They begin to chase the leaders.

4.The leaders run back to the Burhi.

5.The Dogs may also chase the Burhi and the leaders, creating a joyful commotion.

Rules

1.No child should leave their sitting position unless it’s their

turn.

2.Leaders must lift each child carefully without causing discomfort.

3.Physical pushing, pulling, or rough play is not allowed.

4.The dialogue and chase must remain friendly and fun.

Scoring and Rounds

The game is not based on points or competition.

Instead, it emphasizes participation, coordination, and fun.

However, players may choose to award informal points for fastest carrying, best acting, or funniest dialogue.

Cautions

Ensure the ground is soft and free from stones or sharp objects. Younger children should be carried gently.

Avoid playing in crowded or uneven areas.

Benefits to the Players

1.Improves Flexibility: Sitting in Padmasana enhances leg and hip flexibility.

2.Develops Strength: The leaders build muscle strength while carrying others.

3.Awareness of Weight and Balance: Children learn to estimate body weight and maintain balance.

4.Enhances Teamwork and Empathy: Carrying each child carefully fosters care and cooperation.

5.Encourages Imagination: Role-play allows children to express creativity.

Cultural Significance

Kukur Mekori embodies the values of community, care, and harmony seen in Assamese rural life. It teaches children:

1.The importance of helping and supporting others (as seen when leaders carry younger ones).

2.The idea of strength and gentleness coexisting — physical effort with compassion.

3.The joy of shared play without material needs.

4.This game shows how traditional folk games were not only pastimes but also early forms of social learning and cultural expression.

Notes

Kukur Mekori is a vibrant reflection of Assamese village childhood

— full of laughter, imagination, and teamwork.

It encourages physical fitness, mental alertness, and emotional connection among children, making it a valuable traditional heritage game worth preserving and reintroducing in schools today.