History of Carrom Game

Carrom is a popular tabletop game that originated in South Asia and has spread globally, especially in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Maldives. While its exact origins remain unclear, carrom is believed to have been invented in India during the 19th century. Some historical references suggest that it may have been developed as a recreational pastime by aristocrats and royalty.

The earliest formal carrom boards were made by hand, and the game became increasingly popular in the 20th century. The game gained widespread appeal after the formation of official carrom associations, such as the Indian Carrom Federation (ICF) in 1956 and the International Carrom Federation (ICF) in 1988. These organizations standardized the rules and promoted carrom as a competitive sport.

Carrom continues to thrive as both a casual family game and a professional sport, with world championships and international tournaments held regularly.

Preparation of the Carrom Board

The carrom board is a square, smooth wooden board with specific features designed for precision and ease of play. Here's how a standard carrom board is prepared:

1. Material

• Traditionally, carrom boards are made from plywood, with the playing surface polished to ensure smoothness.
• The frame and edges are typically crafted from hardwood, such as rosewood or teak, to provide durability and stability.

2. Surface Dimensions

• The playing surface is a square with dimensions ranging from 72 cm x 72 cm to 74 cm x 74 cm for standard boards.
• The total outer size (including the frame) is larger, usually around 84 cm x 84 cm.

3. Pockets

• Four circular pockets, one at each corner, are cut into the board.
• These pockets are slightly larger than the carrom coins to allow for easy sinking.

4. Markings

• A center circle marks the position for arranging the carrom coins at the start of the game.
• Two concentric circles around the center serve as guides for setting up the coins.
• Four base circles, one near each pocket, are marked for the players' use during gameplay.
• Arrows are often drawn from the base circles towards the center for aesthetic and alignment purposes.

5. Polishing

• The surface is polished with a fine lacquer or wax to make it smooth and frictionless.
• Powder, typically boric acid, is sprinkled on the board before gameplay to ensure smooth movement of coins.

6. Edges

• The board's edges are slightly raised and lined with rubber strips or wood to provide rebound during shots.

7. Coins and Striker

• Carrom coins are made from plastic or wood and include black, white, and one red coin (the Queen).
• The striker is slightly heavier and is used to hit the coins.

By combining precision craftsmanship with regular maintenance, a carrom board is prepared to deliver a fun and competitive gaming experience.