Folk Games in Samegrelo
In Samegrelo, there are numerous traditional games and activities for entertainment, as noted by Arcangelo Lamberti. Some of these games are known worldwide, while others are unique to Samegrelo and Georgia. Among the universally known games are chess, backgammon, and cards. Interestingly, chess and backgammon are played more by women than men, and they exhibit remarkable skill in these games. Card games are rare and usually played only by the most noble princes.
Traditional Games - There are two traditional types of games described by Lamberti: ball throwing and archery. Both games involve horseback riding and are performed in specific settings.
Ball Throwing Game
In this game, eight to ten horsemen with the best horses gather in a wide field where the horses can run freely. The horses are equipped with double or triple bridles to prevent any mishap during the intense play. Each horseman holds a racket (racchetta), about four or five feet long, designed with a rope-woven net similar to those used in Italy, making it easier to pick up the ball from the ground. The game begins with the first player placing the ball on the racket and riding the horse. The other players follow with their rackets in hand. The first player throws the ball ahead, aiming to reach the same spot as the ball lands. When the ball bounces up, the player hits it again. Each player tries to catch the ball while riding their horse and keeping it in play. This continues until the evening, providing delightful and vigorous exercise.
Archery Game
The second game involves archery and is equally engaging. Two tall poles are erected in the middle of a wide square, with a small round table at the tapered tip, about four fingers wide. This setup, known as a pumpkin, is typically placed by the great princes of Odisha in front of their houses. A silver cup is placed on the table, and many horsemen armed with bows and arrows are invited to participate. The riders, one after another, push their horses towards the pumpkin. When they approach, they aim and shoot their arrows to knock the silver cup off the table while riding at full speed. The rider who successfully knocks down the cup becomes its owner and earns the praise of all present.
These traditional games, as observed by Arcangelo Lamberti, not only provide entertainment but also serve as a means to showcase skill, strength, and agility, preserving the rich cultural heritage of Samegrelo.
