Hobbies And Interests
History
The board game of Parcheesi is based on the ancient Indian game of Pachisi, which evolved from a similar game, Chaupar. Chaupar was popular during the Mogul Dynasty, 1526 to 1857, with a life-size version played in the palace courtyards.
Types
Parcheesi has evolved over the centuries, taking on different names. The word "pachisi" translates as "25" in English, and the game 25 remains one of modern-day Parcheesi's counterparts.
The Modern-Day Board Game
The Americanized Parcheesi game was copyrighted in 1869 by E.G. Selchow &Co., which later became Selchow &Righter Co. Hasbro now owns the U.S. license to manufacture and market the game. Back in India, the game of Pachesi was published by Woolson Spice Co. in 1894.
Geography
While Parcheesi is deeply rooted in India and Southeast Asia, the game has European counterparts in the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, France and Italy. Its most famous European name is Ludo.
Identification
Parcheesi is a classic race-and-chase game. Some of its popular American counterparts include Sorry!, Trouble and Aggravation.
Fun Fact
According to the Elliot Avedon Museum and Archive of Games, the early board game of Pachisi was originally played on embroidered felt or fabric for easy storage.