Why Mahjong is becoming India’s latest social obsession at kitty parties and game nights

For those unfamiliar, Mahjong is a game played in groups of four. “Compared to poker, Mahjong is relatively low stress and is played at a leisurely pace, where social banter adds bonding and fun,” shared Sheetal Patel from Lets Mahjong.

From kitty parties to game clubs, Diwali gatherings to wine nights, Mahjong is spreading rapidly, becoming a viral sensation among India’s elite. Patel believes its global resurgence is driven largely by digital fatigue.

Decoding the appeal

Maushmi Chawda first got into Mahjong out of curiosity. The smooth tiles, the satisfying clack of shuffling, and the perfect blend of luck and strategy drew her in. What began as a casual interest quickly became a full-blown obsession.

“It’s one of those rare games that keeps your brain buzzing but still feels calming — like mental yoga with a competitive twist,” said the senior account executive at Madison PR, Mumbai.

For her, the real magic lies in the energy around the table. “The friendly teasing, the laughs, the quiet tension before someone declares ‘Mahjong!’ — it’s all part of the charm. I think that’s why it’s making such a big comeback — it connects people in a way few games do,” she told indianexpress.com.

Socially, it brings people of different generations together. (Credit: Lets Mahjong)

Boosts mental health

According to Shivani Chaddha of Mahjong Maestro, while some dismiss it as a social media trend, Mahjong offers a much-needed digital detox. “The more you play, the more you love it. Hormones like endorphins and dopamine are released during the adrenaline rush, which improves mood and mental health,” she said, adding that connecting with like-minded players can feel as therapeutic as a counselling session.

Improves social life

Socially, Mahjong bridges generations. “It’s a four-player game that allows you to socialise without the pressure of food or drinks,” said Sangeeta Kewalramani from House of Mahjong. She believes the game’s renewed appeal lies in its versatility. “You can host a Mahjong lunch party with friends or compete formally at a tournament,” she said.

According to her, Mahjong is here to stay because it offers lessons that go beyond strategy and observation. “It’s about knowing when to hold on and when to let go — and staying graceful in both victory and defeat. You might start a game thinking one hand will work, but the tiles have other plans. So you adapt, pivot, and make the best of what you’re dealt,” she said, calling it a mirror to life.

Akanksha Mittal from Mahjong Calling added that newer, travel-friendly formats — such as calling card sets — have made the game even more accessible. “Mahjong is becoming a global favourite because it blends strategy, luck, and social interaction perfectly. The designs and symbols also add to its visual appeal,” she said.

Mahjong requires 4 players or groups of 4. (Credit: House of Mahjong)

A beginner’s guide to the game

Kewalramani suggests that beginners join a class to learn properly and gain confidence. For those who want to go further, advanced modules explore complex hands, while tournaments offer the chance to play with different groups.

She shared a quick guide for newcomers:

“When you begin a game of Mahjong, first shuffle all 144 tiles face down in the centre. It’s known as the ‘twittering of sparrows’, and has a calming, ceremonial feel — like clearing the air before play begins. The tiles hold deep meaning in Chinese culture: the three Dragon tiles represent traditional Chinese values — Red for loyalty, Green for prosperity, and White for purity,” she explained.

There are also bonus tiles — Flowers and Seasons — engraved with symbols such as plum blossom (winter), orchid (spring), bamboo (summer), and chrysanthemum (autumn).

Each player builds a wall of 36 tiles (in the Classical European version), forming a square of four walls. Always close your walls, as it symbolises keeping positive energy inside.

From there, the dealer (East wind) starts with 14 tiles while others draw 13. The game flows as players draw and discard tiles, strategising and anticipating moves. When a player is one tile away from victory, they are said to be “fishing”.

And that thrilling moment when someone finally declares “Mahjong!” — that’s what it’s all about.

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