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Chhupan Chhupai, Kho kho, Baraf Paani and other outdoor games that were popular in the 90s

How many of these iconic games have you played?

3 min readNew DelhiDec 18, 2025 08:30 PM IST

How many of these outdoor children's games have you played? (image: freepik)

Childhood in the 1990s unfolded outdoors. Streets, school grounds, and apartment courtyards doubled up as playgrounds. With no electronic equipment and minimal rules, children invented hours of fun through games that sharpened reflexes, built friendships, and encouraged teamwork. Here’s a look at the outdoor games that defined the decade—and how they were actually played.

1. Chhupan Chhupai

A universal childhood game, Chuhpan Chhupai needed nothing more than clever hiding spots and quick reflexes. One child counted with closed eyes while others hid behind parked scooters, staircases, trees, or water tanks. The thrill peaked when players sprinted back to touch the “den” before being spotted, often ending in playful disputes that lasted only a moment.

2. Pakdan Pakdai

Pakdan Pakdai was pure, high-energy chasing with simple rules. One player chased the rest, trying to tag them while everyone ran across open grounds or narrow lanes. Once tagged, the caught player became the next chaser, keeping the game fast, loud, and endlessly exhausting.

3. Kho-Kho

Kho-Kho brought discipline and teamwork to playgrounds. One team sat in a fixed formation while active players chased opponents using swift direction changes and tactical touches. It sharpened reflexes, built stamina, and taught kids the importance of coordination.

4. Baraf Pani

Baraf Pani added emotion to chasing games. Tagged players froze on the spot like statues, waiting for teammates to rescue them with a touch. The tension of saving friends without getting caught made every round dramatic and unforgettable.

5. Chain Chain

Chain Chain turned chasing into a group effort. Once caught, a player joined hands with the chaser, forming a growing chain. As the chain lengthened, coordination became key, with the group working together to corner the remaining runners.

6. Langdi

Langdi tested balance and endurance like no other. The chaser hopped on one leg while trying to tag others, switching legs only after completing a round. Played primarily on school playgrounds, it demanded strength, agility, and impressive stamina.

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7. Lagori (Seven Stones)

Lagori mixed accuracy with chaos. One team knocked down a pile of stones using a ball, while the other tried to hit players before they rebuilt it. Every round was loud, fast, and filled with scraped knees and triumphant cheers.

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8. Kancha (Marbles)

Kancha was all about precision. Players flicked marbles to hit others out of a circle or pit, often winning their opponent’s prized pieces. A well-stocked marble pouch was a serious status symbol.

9. Stapoo (Kikli / Langdi Boxes)

Drawn on the ground with chalk or stone, stapoo challenged balance and focus. Players hopped through numbered boxes on one foot, carefully retrieving a marker without touching the lines.

10. Gitte (Five Stones)

Usually played indoors or on verandahs, gitte involved tossing a stone in the air and quickly picking up others before catching it again. Each level increased in difficulty, testing speed and concentration.

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