Ali Guli Mane
Product description
Ali Guli Mane is a traditional Indian strategy board game from Karnataka and belongs to the global family of Mancala games. The name literally means “wooden block with holes,” referring to the board used for play.
This timeless game has been played for generations across South India and is known by different names such as Chenne Mane (Coastal Karnataka), Akal Patta (North Karnataka), Vamana Guntalu (Andhra Pradesh), and Pallanguzhi (Tamil Nadu).
The Ali Guli Mane board consists of two rows of seven pits each, and the game is played using shells or seeds placed in the pits. Players take turns redistributing shells across the board in a sowing pattern while strategically capturing the opponent’s shells. The goal is to collect the maximum number of shells and outscore the opponent
The Tamaala Ali Guli Mane game set is handcrafted by Channapatna artisans using sustainably sourced wood. The set includes a foldable wooden board and cowry shells stored in a cotton pouch, making it both a beautiful cultural artifact and an engaging family game.
This traditional board game promotes:
Strategic thinking
Logical reasoning
Hand-eye coordination
Mental math skills
It is perfect for family game nights, educational play, and cultural gifting, while helping preserve India’s rich heritage of traditional games.
Mancala games are generally played with shells, stones or seeds and are commonly found across the Latin Americas, Africa and South east Asian regions.
