Chennai: Engineering students studying courses such as computer science engineering at VIT Chennai may soon play classical board games such as Pallanguzhi or Adupuli Attam or Paramapadham at their labs and classes. The institute is planning to scientifically investigate how traditional Tamil games along with selected teachings of Tirukkural and Tirumandhiram can help improve concentration, memory, problem-solving abilities and other aspects of well-being.VIT Chennai has launched a dedicated centre created under Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), a division of Union ministry of education. “The centre will examine specific cognitive abilities associated with different traditional games. Aindu Kal will be studied in relation to visuo-spatial ability, Pallanguzhi with metacognition, Thayam with problem-solving and strategic thinking, Adupuli Attam with memory and cognitive skills, Paramapatham to face life challenges,” said Vijayabanu U, associate professor of psychology, VIT Chennai.The project will similarly examine selected Thirukkural couplets for their relevance to perception, motivation, ethical values, emotional regulation, leadership and decision-making. “The Thirumandhiram, particularly its references to breathing techniques, sense control, and the mind-body relationship, will constitute another stream of the proposed intervention,” she said.Ganesh N, a faculty member from computer science engineering and principal investigator, said the initiative is distinctive as it attempts to place traditional knowledge under the lens of modern science.“Played without digital screens, these games demanded concentration, strategy, memory, observation and interaction with others. However, many of these games are gradually disappearing from everyday life,” said G V Selvam, vice-president of VIT Chennai after inaugurating the centre.By documenting these games, studying their cognitive dimensions and developing structured interventions, the institute aims to create a bridge between Tamil cultural heritage and contemporary education.
