Chaturanga – The Ancient Four-Player Game of Kings & Strategy
Long before modern chess became a two-player battle of pure, silent calculation, Chaturanga was played across ancient India as a lively, four-player tactical war game. Blending dice-driven chance, positional strategy, and dynamic player politics, Chaturanga turns classical warfare into an accessible, high-stakes family game night experience.
Why You'll Love It
Dynamic Four-Player Warfare: Unlike traditional chess, four players compete simultaneously in a free-for-all or 2v2 team battle for ultimate dominion.
Tactical Luck & Politics: Dice rolls dictate which units move each turn, balancing master-level positioning with unpredictable twists, temporary alliances, and dramatic betrayals.
No Early Elimination: Losing your Rajah doesn't knock you out! Maintain control of remaining troops, fight back, or ransom your leader to execute a vengeful comeback.
Product Specifications
Feature
Specification
Players
4 Players (Free-for-All or 2v2 Team Play)
Target Age
Suitable for Families & Strategy Enthusiasts (Ages 8+)
1 Rajah (King): Moves 1 square in any direction; has a once-per-game special Knight-move capability.
1 Gaja (Elephant): Moves any distance orthogonally (like the modern Rook).
1 Ghoda (Cavalry): Moves in an "L-shape" and leaps over intervening pieces (like the modern Knight).
1 Rath (Chariot): Moves exactly 2 squares diagonally, leaping over pieces. Features a special Concourse capture rule.
4 Padas (Pawns): Move 1 square forward, capture 1 square diagonally. Promotes upon reaching an opponent's back rank.
How to Play
1. Setup & Turn Order
Place the Ashtapada mat in the center. Each player arranges their army in their respective corner/quadrant facing inward. Play proceeds clockwise, starting with the highest dice roll.
2. Roll & Command
On your turn, roll the two long dice to determine which unit types you may move:
1: Rath (Chariot)
2: Ghoda (Cavalry)
5: Gaja (Elephant)
6: Rajah or Pada (Player Choice)
You may choose to move one piece, two pieces (if the dice allow), or execute a double move on a single piece if you roll matching numbers.
3. Capturing & Mutiny Rules
Land directly on an opponent's piece to capture and remove it from the board. If a player loses their Rajah, their remaining army enters a state of occupancy:
The capturer shares command and can move the captured player's pieces on their own turn.
The defeated player remains active on their turn, retaining the ability to move their own troops, attack the occupier, or capture the occupier's Rajah to negotiate a prisoner exchange and restore full control.
4. Claiming Victory
Navigate the political chaos, form temporary pacts, and deploy your forces effectively. The first player to capture two opposing Rajahs is crowned the Maharajah and wins the game!
Product features
Perfect for Social and Emotional Learning and travel friendly.
Materials and care
Artisan-crafted using sustainable and child-safe materials, ideal for eco-conscious consumers
