Navakankari – The Ancient Indian Game of Nine Pebbles & Mills
Known traditionally as Navakankari ("Nine Pebbles"), this ancient South Asian alignment game is played on a geometric grid of three concentric squares. Pitting two players against each other in a battle of placement, movement, and tactical captures, Navakankari sharpens focus, spatial strategy, and long-term planning through the art of forming "mills."
Why You'll Love It
Classic Abstract Strategy: Pure head-to-head positioning with zero reliance on luck or dice— victory depends entirely on foresight and skill.
Dynamic Two-Phase Gameplay: Transitions smoothly from a tactical placement phase to an intense movement and trapping phase.
Rich Cultural Heritage: A timeless traditional game played across India for generations, perfect for family game nights, festival gatherings, and strategy enthusiasts.
Product Specifications
Feature
Specification
Players
2 Players
Target Age
Suitable for Ages 7+
Board Format
Three Concentric Squares linked by Mid-Side Lines (24 Intersection Points)
In the Box
1 Playing Board Mat, 18 Markers/Tokens (9 Black / 9 White), Rulebook
Game Objective
Reduce opponent to 2 pieces OR immobilize them so no legal moves remain
How to Play
1. Setup
The game board starts completely empty. Both players receive 9 markers of their respective color. A toss determines who places first.
2. Phase 1: Placement
Players alternate turns placing 1 marker at a time on any unoccupied intersection point on the board.
Forming a Mill: Placing three markers in a straight line along grid lines forms a "mill." When you form a mill, you immediately capture and remove one of your opponent's markers from the board. (Note: Pieces currently in an opponent's mill cannot be removed).
3. Phase 2: Movement
Once all 18 markers are placed on the grid, players alternate sliding 1 marker per turn to an adjacent connected empty point along grid lines (no jumping).
Capturing & Remaking: Forming a mill during movement allows you to capture an opponent's non-mill piece. You can break and reform your own mill to capture again, up to a maximum of 3 total formations per mill.
4. Winning the Game
Reduce Opponent: Reduce your opponent's army down to 2 markers (making it impossible for them to form a mill).
Immobilize Opponent: Trapping all of your opponent's markers so they have zero legal moves on their turn.
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
