From Kashmir

Tulai Langum is enjoyed by children as this is both an exercise and a fun game. The players pull each other on their backs with their arms twisted in opposite directions.

The version described here is more physical, engaging, and great for building camaraderie while honoring Kashmiri tradition.

This variant is played on a circular field, with an inner circle and outer boundary being demarcated. At the start of the game, two of the players become a cat and mouse respectively, with all other players becoming pitchers. All of the pitchers pair off and stand around the perimeter of the inner circle, with each pair holding each other by locking the elbow from the backside. The cat’s goal is to tag the mouse; if the mouse links their elbow with one of the pitchers, then the pitcher who is not connected to the mouse disconnects from the pairing and swaps roles with the mouse. If the cat catches the mouse, then they swap roles.

In one variation of elbow tag, when a mouse links their elbow with one of the pitchers, the pitcher who disconnects from the pairing becomes a cat, and the previous cat becomes a mouse.

Origin

Tulai Lungum, played with players locking arms, unfolds in the Kashmiri tradition. The game requires at least two players, though it’s more fun with a group.

As they play, they chant, ‘Tulaai langum tulaan cheas, makhdoom seabun khasan cheas.’ This game is considered a perfect exercise for the back and neck, and elders believed that those who play would never suffer from any back or neck problems.

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The Setup

Winning: A player is out if they lose balance, fall, or let go of their partner’s arms. The last player standing or the team with better coordination wins the round.

Rules

Skills Developed

Teamwork and cooperation (if in pairs or teams).

Strength and balance. Reflexes and quick thinking.