How To Play Pachisi: A Simple Guide In Hindi

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Pachisi, guys, is a classic board game with roots stretching way back to ancient India. It's super similar to games like Ludo and Sorry!, so if you're familiar with those, you'll pick this up in no time. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to start playing Pachisi, from the equipment to the rules, all explained in simple Hindi.

What You Need to Play Pachisi

Before diving into how to play, let's make sure you've got everything ready to go. Here's the lowdown on the essential Pachisi gear:

The Board (चोपड़): The Pachisi board is traditionally a cloth cross. Each arm of the cross is divided into three columns of eight squares. Certain squares are marked as safe squares, which we'll get into later.
Pawns (गोटियाँ): Each player gets four pawns, all of the same color. These are your playing pieces that you'll move around the board.
Dice (पासे): You'll need either six cowrie shells or two dice to determine how many spaces you can move your pawns. Cowrie shells are the traditional method, but dice are easier to find and use.

Setting Up The Game (खेल की तैयारी)

First off, get that board nice and flat, ready for action. Each player needs to pick a color and grab their four pawns of that color. These pawns start off the board, waiting for their moment to shine.
Each player positions their pawns in the central starting square (called the Charkoni) on their side of the board. The starting squares are usually marked or colored differently. Get those गोटियाँ lined up, ready for the adventure ahead!
Now, decide who gets to roll the dice or toss the cowrie shells first. You can do this by a simple round of rock-paper-scissors (एक पत्थर, एक कागज, एक कैंची) or any other method everyone agrees on. With the stage set, it’s time to kick things off and get this game rolling!

Understanding the Dice Roll or Cowrie Toss

The dice roll or cowrie toss determines how many spaces you can move your pawns. Here’s how it works:

Using Dice (पासे का उपयोग): If you're using dice, the numbers on the dice tell you how many spaces to move. If you roll a 5 and a 2, you can move a total of 7 spaces.
Using Cowrie Shells (कौड़ी का उपयोग): If you're using cowrie shells, the number of shells that land with the opening upwards determines the number of spaces you can move. All openings down usually counts as 10.

Basic Gameplay: Moving Your Pawns

The main goal in Pachisi is to move all four of your pawns from the starting square, around the board, and back to the central square before your opponents do. Here's how the movement works:

Entering the Game (खेल में प्रवेश): To get a pawn onto the board, you usually need to roll a specific number, like a 6. Check the rules of your particular version of Pachisi, as this can vary. Once you roll the required number, you can move one of your pawns from the starting square onto the first square of the track.
Moving Around the Board (बोर्ड के चारों ओर घूमना): Move your pawns clockwise around the board according to the number you rolled. You can move one pawn the entire distance, or you can split the movement between multiple pawns. For example, if you roll a 7, you could move one pawn 4 spaces and another pawn 3 spaces.
Safe Squares (सुरक्षित वर्ग): Certain squares on the board are marked as safe squares. Pawns on safe squares cannot be captured by opponents. Use these strategically to protect your pawns.

Capturing Opponent's Pawns

One of the key elements of Pachisi is capturing your opponent's pawns. If you land on a square occupied by an opponent's pawn (and it's not a safe square), you capture their pawn. The captured pawn is sent back to its starting square and has to start all over again. This adds a layer of strategy and excitement to the game.

Winning the Game

To win Pachisi, you need to get all four of your pawns from the starting square, around the entire board, and back into the central square. The first player to do this wins the game. It requires a combination of luck, strategy, and a little bit of cunning to outmaneuver your opponents and claim victory.

Detailed Pachisi Rules: A Deep Dive

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of Pachisi rules. Knowing these details can really up your game, so pay attention!

Starting the Game

The Initial Roll: In many versions, you need a specific number (often a 6) to get a pawn out of the starting position. Keep rolling until you get that lucky number. No six? No pawn movement, unfortunately. Once you roll that magic number, place your pawn on the starting square and you're officially in the game!
Multiple Pawns: If you roll a 6 again, you get another chance to bring a pawn onto the board, or move a pawn already in play six spaces. This rule helps you get all your pieces moving quickly.

Moving Your Pawns Strategically

Splitting the Movement: Got a big roll? You can split the move between multiple pawns. This is super useful for setting up strategic blocks or getting multiple pawns closer to the finish line. For example, if you roll an 8, you could move one pawn five spaces and another three. Clever, right?
Safe Squares are Your Friends: These are marked spaces where your pawns are safe from capture. Use them wisely! They're great spots to park a pawn that’s in danger or to set up a future move.

Capturing Opponent Pawns

The Capture Rule: Landing on a square occupied by an opponent sends their pawn back to the starting point. This is a key tactic for slowing down your rivals. It's not just about getting your pawns home; it's about messing with their plans too!
Safe Square Exception: Remember, you can't capture an opponent's pawn if it's sitting pretty on a safe square. These squares are like little fortresses.

Special Rolls and Turns

Bonus Turns: Rolling a 6 often gives you another turn. This can really speed up your progress and give you an edge. Use those extra turns wisely!
Continuous Sixes: Some variations allow you to keep rolling as long as you get sixes. Imagine the possibilities! But be careful; some rules also penalize excessive sixes.

Finishing the Game Strong

Exact Count to Finish: You need the exact number to enter the home square. No overshooting allowed! If you roll too high, you can't move that pawn on that turn.
Blocking Tactics: Sometimes, the best move isn't to advance your pawn, but to block an opponent. Place your pawns strategically to force them to take a longer route or risk capture.

Strategic Tips for Pachisi Domination

Okay, so you know the rules, but how do you actually win? Here are some sneaky strategic tips to help you dominate the Pachisi board:

Early Pawn Deployment: Focus on getting all your pawns into the game early. The more pawns you have on the board, the more options you have.
Strategic Blocking: Use your pawns to block your opponents' progress. This can force them to take longer routes or leave themselves vulnerable to capture.
Prioritize Safe Squares: Always aim for safe squares, especially when you're in danger of being captured. They provide a safe haven for your pawns.
Plan Your Moves Ahead: Think a few steps ahead. Don't just react to the current roll; anticipate future moves and potential threats.
Be Aggressive with Captures: Don't hesitate to capture opponent's pawns, especially if it sets them back significantly.
Split Moves Wisely: Use the split move option to your advantage. Sometimes, moving two pawns a little is better than moving one pawn a lot.
Control the Center: If possible, try to control the center of the board. This gives you more options and makes it harder for your opponents to maneuver.
Adapt Your Strategy: Be flexible and adapt your strategy based on the current state of the game. Don't be afraid to change your plans if necessary.

Variations and House Rules

Pachisi has been around for centuries, so it's no surprise that there are many variations and house rules. Here are a few common ones:

Different Starting Numbers: Some versions require a different number than 6 to start the game.
Stacking Pawns: Some versions allow you to stack multiple pawns on the same square, making them harder to capture.
Partnerships: Pachisi can be played with teams, adding a cooperative element to the game.

Before you start playing, make sure everyone agrees on the rules you'll be using. This will prevent any arguments or confusion later on.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Game!

Pachisi is a game of luck, strategy, and a little bit of cunning. It's a great way to spend time with friends and family, and it's a game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So gather your friends, grab a board, and start playing! Have fun!