In an era dominated by digital screens, Chennai-based entrepreneur Charanya Kumar is steering children back to their roots with ‘Chittam’—a collection of eco-friendly games designed to immerse young minds in the rich tapestry of Indian culture, history, and mythology.
🌿 The Genesis of Chittam
- A Personal Realization: Charanya observed a gap in children’s education concerning emotional intelligence and cultural awareness. Recognizing that traditional learning often lacks depth in these areas, she envisioned a solution that combines fun with meaningful learning.
- Meaning Behind the Name: ‘Chittam’ translates to ‘mind’ or ‘psyche’ in Sanskrit, reflecting the brand’s mission to nurture thoughtful, self-aware, and culturally grounded individuals.
- Launch and Growth: Since its inception in January 2023, Chittam has developed 17 unique games, ranging from board games to storytelling kits, each crafted to bring families together and foster a deeper understanding of India’s diverse heritage.
🎲 Games That Tell Stories
- Bharath Villas: Inspired by the classic game of Rummy, this card game features four categories—monuments, weaves, dance forms, and foods—representing various Indian states. Players aim to collect a complete set from a single state, promoting knowledge of regional cultures.
- My Aadhar: This engaging game poses 21 questions to children about their homeland and cultural practices, encouraging them to explore and articulate their personal and communal identities.
- Suprabatham: An activity-based family kit designed to initiate meaningful conversations among family members, bridging generational gaps and reinforcing familial bonds through shared cultural narratives.
🧠 Educational Impact
- Holistic Learning: Chittam’s games are more than just entertainment; they serve as tools for holistic education, integrating cognitive development with emotional and cultural intelligence.
- Cultural Connection: By embedding elements of Indian mythology, history, and traditions into gameplay, children develop a personal connection to their heritage, fostering pride and a sense of belonging.
- Family Engagement: These games encourage family participation, creating opportunities for intergenerational learning and storytelling, which are vital for preserving cultural narratives.
