ROPES is deeply committed to fostering a love for sports and traditional games in rural communities, specifically focusing on the vibrant and diverse lives of Dalit and tribal children. Our initiatives have reached a wide range of levels, extending from grassroots activities in local schools to competitive events at the district, state, and even interstate levels. Through these efforts, we inspire and empower both boys and girls to actively participate in a rich variety of sports and traditional games, nurturing their talents and building a sense of community and teamwork.

The children have enthusiastically engaged in a variety of popular sports, including volleyball, tennis (tennikoit), football, and cricket, which are widely celebrated in our communities. Alongside these contemporary sports, we have made a concerted effort to highlight traditional games that hold cultural significance, such as kabaddi, kho-kho, tug of war, hopping, and marbles. This thoughtful approach not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters teamwork, strategy, and camaraderie. By creating an inclusive environment, we ensure that both boys and girls have the opportunity to participate, learn, and thrive together, cultivating a sense of belonging and shared achievement.

Our interventions

Our programs have beautifully expanded to include a diverse array of traditional cultural activities that take place at the village level as well as during interstate competitions. Participants can immerse themselves in vibrant practices such as kolatam, where rhythmic movements are synchronized with lively music, and gummi, an engaging game that highlights teamwork and agility. The energetic beats of drum beats echo through the air, while rangoli competitions invite creativity as individuals craft stunning patterns using colorful powders. Other activities like lezim, kite flying, gilli danda, nundi, and hopscotch not only provide joy and excitement but also serve as a joyful homage to our roots. Each of these traditional games and cultural expressions is essential for preserving and celebrating our rich heritage, fostering a deep connection to our history and instilling a sense of pride within our community.

Why Traditional Games Matter

Traditional games are essential for the holistic cultural development of children, particularly those hailing from marginalized communities. These time-honored activities go beyond simply providing physical exercise; they serve as dynamic platforms that promote cognitive growth by challenging children to think critically, strategize, and solve problems in a playful context. Furthermore, traditional games foster social interaction, creating opportunities for children to build meaningful relationships, develop communication skills, and enhance their ability to work collaboratively within a group.

Most importantly, these games create a bridge to cultural identity, allowing children to immerse themselves in their heritage and connect with the stories and traditions of their ancestors. As they engage in these time-tested activities, they cultivate a deeper sense of pride in their cultural roots and a greater belonging to their community. This intricate interplay of physical, cognitive, and social benefits not only enriches their childhood experiences but also lays the foundation for resilient, culturally aware individuals who will carry forward their traditions.

Media Recognition

For the last 25 years ROPES has been engaged continuously to promote and strengthen sports and games and also Traditional games among rural communities.

Inauguration of the Traditional Sport