Mahjong Overtakes Diwali Parties, Becoming New Elite Favorite

Mahjong, a 19th-century Chinese tile game, has transitioned from a niche activity among Indian army wives to a premier party game for Delhi's elite. Its popularity has surged dramatically over the past year, with Mahjong setups now a common sight at Diwali parties, often overshadowing traditional games like Teen Patti.

Fashion designer Ritu Beri noted the game's resurgence, recalling its prevalence among army wives. This 'game of luck and strategy' is now a regular feature at upscale kitty parties and even themed events. Sunayana Bhinder Chibba highlighted its suitability for gatherings like Karwa Chauth, emphasizing how engrossing the game is.

Mahjong-exclusive clubs across cities are organizing events for hundreds of members, demonstrating its expanding social calendar. Ria Bajaj, co-founder of The Mahjong Network, confirmed a surge in event and party requests since the festive season began, with gatherings occurring every two days in Mumbai. The game is attracting a broader audience beyond its traditional association with women.

Restaurants are also exploring ways to capitalize on Mahjong's trend by integrating it into their festive offerings. Maneka Jain Daswani, Bajaj's partner, noted that Mahjong parties are replacing traditional Diwali card parties, as the game is no longer exclusively for women, significantly supplanting games like Rummy and Teen Patti.

The heightened interest has also spurred demand for crash courses, with many seeking to learn the game quickly for social engagement. Vineeta Sahni from the Indian Mahjong Association has been receiving daily requests for rapid learning sessions. While acknowledging the social aspect, Sahni stresses that mastering Mahjong requires dedicated learning, recommending at least a three-hour introductory class and ideally five sessions for proficiency. Demand for trainers is particularly high among those hosting Mahjong parties during the festive season.