Nardi Game Set

The thwack and slam of the checkers permeate the air as my father confidently flows through the game, moving his checkers to block me in. 10-year-old me sits there, contemplating my next move. Strategizing if I want to be bold or safe in protecting my checkers. This game, Nardi, also known as Backgammon, was one of the first board games taught to me by my father. Nardi is a board game that originated in ancient Persia and spread to countries such as Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. My family, from Azerbaijan, has learned and played nardi for generations. At first, the game was intimidating to learn, with its aggressive smacking of the checkers and rolling the dye while counting in Farsi. I remember sitting at the table, rolling the dice, getting a 6 and a 5, or, as my father calls it, “Şeş Beş.” As I learned new strategies, moves, and the Farsi language, I also became closer to my family and culture. Our game set specifically was made and brought from my country, Baku, Azerbaijan, making it even more special to me and my family. As it’s another object symbolizing our history. Today, I stand as a champion within my family, being almost undefeated as I play against my family. I hope to pass down this game and game set to my children, teaching them ways to strategize, learn, play, and bond with family.