Vitti Dandu

The Marathi name and local style of gilli-danda, with a small guchhi hole in the centre of the field and its own state federation.

How it is played

A short pointed stick is levered out of a small hole with a longer stick and struck in flight; the score depends on the distance reached and whether fielders can catch it.

Heritage note

Part of the living heritage of India.

Origins

Usually placed in the era of Age of Contact and Craft (about 1500 to 1800), although its exact origins are uncertain, within the cultural world of South Asia.