By Mahmoud Zakaria

Traditional games are an integral part of a country’s heritage, reflecting its cultural identity and way of life. While some view them as mere entertainment, these games hold deep meanings, noble values and important objectives. They contribute to a child’s social, emotional, educational, physical and linguistic development. Passed down informally through generations, these simple games continue to be played in various settings. They often rely on physical skill, agility and strategic maneuvering.

Most materials used in these games were simple and repurposed items like metal scraps, wood and glass, making them affordable and often free. This accessibility allowed children of all ages and social classes to participate, whether rich or poor.

Al-Ardah dance

Al-Adadeel small boat competition

Al-darbaha, a famous Kuwaiti heritage game.

Bean (bajilla) seller.

Olden games

A popular game in the past, “darbaha” (Kuwaiti dialect for “rolling object”), involved a circular metal rod, usually from bicycle wheels. Children would salvage worn-out bicycle tires, using sticks to push and steer them. Owning a “darbaha” was as significant to them as owning a bicycle or car today. They held races and competitions, trying to steer their wheels into others to knock them down. This game embodied the simplicity of life and the ability to create fun from everyday objects.

Al-Adadeel, a traditional game popular among children near the sea, involved crafting small boats from foldable metal sheets. Openings were sealed with a petroleum-based adhesive called “tari” to prevent water from entering. A wooden mast and triangular fabric sail completed the design. Children gathered on the shore to launch their boats, relying on the wind for movement. If a boat capsized, its owner was eliminated. The last boat afloat was the winner. The excitement and competition made the race an enjoyable pastime.

Al-Forda vegetable market by the seaside

Children play on a swing

Eid celebrations in Al-Safat Square in the olden days.

Mahmoud Zakaria

Eid celebrations in the past

Eid in the past was filled with pure joy and excitement, unlike today, where celebrations are often limited to greetings, chalet trips or travel. Eid was once more festive. Families cleaned and organized their homes, women made traditional sweets and children eagerly awaited new clothes for the occasion.

On Eid morning, families woke up joyfully. If it was Eid Al-Fitr, they had a simple breakfast, often dates, before heading to the mosque for prayers. Afterward, people exchanged greetings, and children kissed their elders’ hands to receive their “Eidiya” (monetary gift), which they spent on rides and sweets.

Dressed in their finest clothes, boys and girls looked radiant. Girls adorned their hands and feet with henna, creating intricate red-hued designs. Children eagerly anticipated their “Eidiya”, hoping for a rare fortune — a rupee (the pre-dinar currency), a sum that felt like a dream come true.

Water carriers who owned donkeys painted them in bright colors and patterns, decorated them with bells and rented them out to children, bringing joy to the occasion. Al-Safat Square was a lively gathering place where people showcased their new Eid clothes. Toymakers set up wooden games, including swings of various sizes and wooden horses known as “Um Al-Husan”.

Eid celebrations featured traditional performances, particularly “Al-Ardah”, a well-known Kuwaiti dance involving synchronized sword movements accompanied by drummers. Even Kuwait’s ruler attended, personally congratulating citizens.

Preserving these games is vital. Families and the government play a key role in keeping them alive. The state should promote them through festivals featuring competitions and prizes, while schools should allocate time for students to engage in these historic games.