A Che Che Sih Hlawk Ah – Mizoram

Introduction

Play (Kreeda) has always held a significant place in the holistic development of children in Bharatiya (Indian) tradition. Ancient texts such as the Taittiriya Upanishad emphasize the harmony between Sharira (body), Manas (mind), and Atman (spirit). Games that combine physical agility with restraint (Sanyama) cultivate both Bala (strength) and Pragya (awareness).

The following traditional group game, locally named “Around the London”, is a playful activity for children aged 6–8 years that fosters self-discipline, patience, and alertness—virtues long celebrated in Sanatana Dharma.

Method of Play

  • Participants: No fixed number; more players enhance the Ananda (joy) of the game.

  • Playground Space: An open ground with children standing at a distance of 50–70 feet from the leader (Nayaka).

  • Role of the Leader: The Nayaka, standing with the back turned, calls out “Around the London” and swiftly turns toward the Shishyas (followers).

  • Role of the Children: The group of children must remain completely still, like a Pratima (statue), while being observed. Any movement while the leader is watching results in elimination (Bahiskara).

  • Progression: When the Nayaka turns back again, the players advance forward. This alternation of mobility and stillness continues.

  • Victory Conditions:

    • If a child is caught moving, he/she replaces the Nayaka and assumes the role of the observer.

    • If a participant successfully reaches and touches the Nayaka, that player passes (Siddhi) and withdraws from the game joyfully.

Thus, the cycle continues until all children have either attained Siddhi or have been eliminated.

Educational Yogic Benefits

  1. Patience (Dhriti) – By learning to remain still, children develop inner steadiness.

  2. Alertness (Jagrat Bhava) – Quick responses to changes in the Nayaka’s gaze enhance attention.

  3. Self-Control (Sanyama) – Controlling laughter, movement, or words cultivates restraint akin to Yama-Niyama of Yoga.

  4. Promptness (Pratyutpanna Mati) – The game practices swift decision-making in limited time.

  5. Joy (Ananda) – The communal play uplifts the spirit, in harmony with the Indian principle that Hasya (laughter) is a Rasa that nourishes the heart.

Pedagogical Note

This play activity is a modern reflection of Kreeda Yoga, the philosophy that learning through joyful movement is better retained by the Chitta (mind-field). It may be incorporated in school curricula as a method for enhancing concentration (Ekagrata), group cooperation (Sahakarya), and embodied mindfulness (Sharira-Mana-Samanvaya).