Now Reading: Urban India rediscovers mahjong fever
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Urban India rediscovers mahjong fever
Mahjong, the ancient Chinese tile game, is seeing a revival among urban Indians, particularly in cities like Kolkata and Mumbai. Once a staple in military and expatriate clubs, the game is now…
Mahjong, the ancient Chinese tile game, is seeing a revival among urban Indians, particularly in cities like Kolkata and Mumbai. Once a staple in military and expatriate clubs, the game is now drawing younger players through social media groups and dedicated clubs.
A Nikkei Asia report notes that the game, which involves strategy, patience, and social connection, is being passed down through families. Enthusiasts say it offers a screen-free way to bond, and some tournaments now attract hundreds of participants across the country.
Indian Opinion Analysis
This revival mirrors a broader global trend of rediscovering traditional tabletop games as antidotes to digital overload. In India, mahjong has long been associated with niche communities, but the rise of urban hobby clubs and intergenerational play could expand its reach. What remains unclear is whether the game will gain enough critical mass to rival card games like rummy or bridge, which have deeper institutional support. The next signal to watch is the formation of any national-level tournament circuit or regulatory push that could give mahjong a formal structure in India.
Source: asia.nikkei.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
