Indigenous Games and Indian Culture: A Conceptual and Educational Analysis

Abstract

Indigenous games form a vital component of India’s cultural heritage and traditional physical culture. These games have evolved organically within communities and have been transmitted across generations as a means of recreation, physical training, and social interaction. Despite their deep cultural and educational significance, indigenous games have experienced gradual marginalization due to modernization, globalization, and the dominance of standardized international sports. The present paper adopts a conceptual and descriptive approach to analyze the relationship between indigenous games and Indian culture. It explores their historical development, cultural relevance, educational value, and contemporary status within the framework of physical education. The study further discusses challenges faced in preserving traditional games and proposes measures for their revival through curriculum integration, policy support, and community participation. The paper concludes that indigenous games are essential for holistic development and cultural sustainability and should be systematically incorporated into the Indian physical education system.