You have come to the right place if you are new to the Carrom board game or unsure about its rules and gameplay. This article will act as your guidebook to learning all about the Carrom board game.
What is Carrom?
Carrom is a classic board game commonly played with family and friends at social functions. However, you can play it more competitively by participating in tournaments. The Carrom game combines elements of pool and air hockey but is more compact and portable.
Carrom is traditionally an indoor tabletop game, but with technological advancement, online Carrom games are now available. The main objective of the game remains the same: flick the striker to pocket carrommen into any of the four corner pockets. However, rules and gameplay formats may differ slightly, especially in online versions.
Carrom Board Game Overview
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | India |
| Game Genre | Board game |
| Number of Players | 2 to 4 |
| Playing Time | Variable |
| Skills Required | Aiming, Striking, Strategy |
| Online Availability | Yes |
History of Carrom
The exact origin of Carrom before the 19th century is uncertain. While many believe that Indian Maharajas invented the game, there is no solid evidence. Other theories suggest that Carrom originated in Portugal or even Ancient Egypt.
Despite these varied theories, Carrom became popular in India after World War I. State-level competitions were held across India during the early 20th century. By 1958, India and Sri Lanka had formed official Carrom federations. In 1988, the International Carrom Federation (ICF) was established in Chennai, with its current headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland. ICF published the formal rules for the Indian version of the game the same year.
Carrom Federations Around the World
- Asia: Championships supervised by the Asian Carrom Confederation (SAARC countries).
- Europe: The European Carrom Confederation organizes the Euro Cup and coordinates national federations.
- USA: The US Carrom Association conducts an annual National Open Championship.
Carrom Board Game Rules
The ICF enforces International Rules, also known as “The Laws of Carrom.”
1. Rules to Break:
A toss is conducted using carrommen in both hands. The player guessing correctly gets the first strike. They may choose to strike first or allow the opponent to go first, which also switches their color from white to black.
2. Rules to Cover the Queen:
After pocketing the Queen, the player must cover it by pocketing one or more of their own carrommen. Failing to do so returns the Queen to the center of the board.
3. General Rules:
Players must flick the striker with precision to hit the carrommen. There are rules for valid shots, fouls, and penalties.
Tips and Tricks for Carrom
- Practice precision and striking angles.
- Use different flicking styles like the scissors or index finger strike.
- Focus on covering the Queen quickly.
Equipment Required for Playing Carrom
- Carrom Board: A 29-inch square board with four corner pockets.
- Carrommen: 9 black and 9 white pieces, made of wood or plastic.
- Striker: A larger and heavier piece to strike the carrommen.
- The Queen: A red/pink piece worth 3 points.
- Powder: Usually Boric acid powder for smooth piece movement.
Carrommen Specifications:
- Diameter: 3.02 cm to 3.18 cm
- Thickness: 7–9 mm
- Weight: 5.0–5.5 grams
Striker Specifications:
- Diameter: 4.1 cm
- Weight: ~35 grams
Carrom Game Variations
1. Duboo (Pakistan):
Larger board, striker is slid rather than flicked.
2. Tokyu-Ban (Japan):
Smaller 60×60 cm board with large pockets. 12 carrommen per player, wooden striker.
3. Fichapool (Mexico):
Uses plastic rings as carrommen. Each player has 12 pieces.
4. American Carrom:
Striker and carrommen are ring-shaped. Uses cue sticks. Pieces made from plastic.
Benefits of Playing Carrom
- Enhances focus and strategic thinking.
- Improves hand-eye coordination.
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Encourages social bonding.
- May reduce risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia by stimulating the brain.
FAQs About Carrom
Q1: How to play the Carrom board game?
A: Use the striker to flick carrommen into corner pockets. Cover the Queen and outscore your opponent.
Q2: How to win a Carrom Game?
A: Pocket all your pieces and cover the Queen for extra points before your opponent.
Q3: Can I play Carrom online?
A: Yes, many apps and platforms now offer digital Carrom gameplay.
Q4: How many tokens are there in Carrom?
A: 19 total – 9 black, 9 white, and 1 red Queen.
Q5: Which country invented Carrom?
A: The exact origin is unclear, but most evidence points to India or its neighboring regions.
Conclusion
Carrom is a timeless game with roots that span centuries and cultures. Whether you enjoy the game casually with family or take it seriously in tournaments, the Carrom board game offers fun, strategy, and mental exercise. Its growing popularity in online platforms ensures that Carrom continues to be a cherished game around the globe.
Disclaimer: Carrom is not available on the Zupee platform. This article is intended for informational purposes only.