To revive traditional games in the region, Gachsaran, an oilfield town in the province of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad in southwestern Iran, will host the ‘Traditional Games Festival’ for a month starting on March 15, announced provincial Governor Farajollah Estelahi.
“In all 127 teams with participants from 25 villages will compete in 13 fields of sport such as: futsal, horseback riding, volleyball, chess, tennis, track and field, tug of war, and a number of local games,” he said, noting that the inauguration ceremony would be attended by national and provincial officials in Sarabniz village, IRNA reported.
These games reflect the customs and culture of a particular region. “Therefore, to keep alive the customs as part of our intangible cultural heritage, we should revive traditional games by holding such festivals financially supported by the government, said head of Iran Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization of Gachsaran, Houman Enaei.
Nowadays, playing electronic and computer games “has increased lethargy in kids and young adults. Participating in lively traditional games is a way to bring vivacity back in the youngsters,” he noted.
Modern vs. Traditional
“Games are important in the promotion of a child’s ability and talent,” said Soudabeh Alizadeh, an educational science expert. Since most of today’s children grow up in small apartments, their physical activity has been limited compared to the past; so they have turned to computer games rather than participating in physical sports.”
Computer games are the main concern today regarding children’s health since they limit a child’s power of imagination and physical activity, she noted, adding that attachment to electronic games will increase the likelihood of mental and physical harm such as obesity in children. She called on parents to provide appropriate toys and encourage useful competitive games for children, so as to enable “good lifelong memories” leading to a child’s self-confidence.
