Engaging Indian Youth with Heritage of Traditional Games including Board Games for Revitalization in Digital Gaming Era.

This research paper aims to make Indian youth realize the importance of Indian traditional games with the country’s cultural heritage. Games used to play a significant role in the daily lives of youngsters but the contemporary youth is excessively engaged in digital games, which often lack body movement and face-to-face interaction. A total of 41 respondents comprised the sample of the study. The present study was conducted in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. This research identifies the main reasons behind the lack of awareness in youth about traditional games. Further, analyzing the factors that can intrigue youth by exposing them to the historical significance and regional diversity of the country and how traditional games can bridge this gap. This can foster youth with a sense of familiarity and national unity after playing traditional games of different regions reflecting different cultures. The paper also lists the impact of digital games inspired by some traditional games and analyzes the usage of current technology such as Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality to influence the youth in playing traditional games. It also states how social media platforms can be used for influencing the youth about traditional games. This research also includes the role of NEP (National Education Policy) 2020 for the promotion of traditional games and how to overcome the challenges arising in the implementation. The paper also explores the capabilities of traditional games in improving the mental and physical health of disabled individuals. Based on primary research methods including surveys and interviews, the paper will conclude numerous ways to make traditional games more appealing to the contemporary youth for a better engagement in this digital era.