How To Host A Bingo Party Indian-Style: Tips And Ideas

Author: Avanti Agarwal

Bingo is a popular game around the world, and India has its own version of the game, called Tambola or Housie. It's a fun and exciting game that can be played with friends and family, and is perfect for parties and gatherings. So, if you're thinking of hosting a bingo party Indian-style, here are some tips and ideas to get you started. First though, let’s take a quick look at the links between bingo and India, before moving on to think about some tips and ideas for your very own party!

The Link Between Bingo And India

Bingo or Housie, as it is known in India, has been a popular game in the country for decades. According to bingo experts Bingosites.co.uk: ‘The game was introduced to India during the British colonial era and has since become a staple at social gatherings and parties.’ ‘Housie has its own unique set of rules and terminology, with numbers being called out in Hindi or other regional languages.’ The game, like all of gambling, has also evolved with the times, with digital versions and online platforms now available in addition to struggling yet beloved brick and mortar institutions. Housie is not only a source of entertainment but also a way for people to come together and socialise, making it a cherished part of Indian culture.

1. Choose A Venue

The first step in hosting a bingo party is to choose a venue. This could be your home, a community hall, or a rented space. Make sure the venue is large enough to accommodate your guests comfortably, and has enough tables and chairs for everyone to sit and play. You'll also need a space to display the bingo numbers and prizes.

2. Create Bingo Tickets

Next, create your bingo tickets. Tambola tickets typically have three rows of five numbers each, with a blank space in the centre. You can either create your own tickets using a template, or buy pre-printed tickets from a stationary store or online. Make sure you have enough tickets for all your guests, plus a few extra in case of any last-minute additions.

3. Get Prizes

No bingo party is complete without prizes! You can either offer cash prizes or gifts, depending on your budget and the number of players. Some popular prize ideas for Indian-style bingo include kitchen appliances, home decor items, electronic gadgets, and gift cards. You can also offer a grand prize for the full house winner, such as a weekend getaway or a luxury hamper.

4. Set Up The Game

Once you have your venue, tickets, and prizes, it's time to set up the game. Display the bingo numbers on a board or screen where everyone can see them, and have a caller who will announce the numbers as they are drawn. You'll also need markers for the players to mark their tickets, such as coins, beans, or small pieces of paper.

5. Play The Game

To play the game, the caller will draw a number at random and announce it to the players. The players will then mark the corresponding number on their tickets. The game continues until someone completes a row or the entire ticket (depending on the rules you're playing by) and calls out "Tambola!" or "Housie!" The caller will then verify the winning ticket and award the prize.

6. Add Some Spice

To make your bingo party more exciting, you can add some fun elements to the game. For example, you can have a theme for the party, such as Bollywood or Indian food, and incorporate that into the prizes and decorations. You can also play some music during the game to keep the energy up, or have a dance break between rounds. Another idea is to have some mini-games or challenges during the breaks, such as a quiz or a talent show.

7. Serve Refreshments

No party is complete without food and drinks, so make sure to serve some refreshments for your guests. For an Indian-style bingo party, you can serve snacks like samosas, pakoras, and chaat, and drinks like chai, lassi, or masala soda. You can also have a potluck or catered meal, depending on the time of day and the length of the party.

8. Have Fun!

Finally, remember that the most important part of any party is to have fun! Don't stress too much about the details or the rules – the idea is to spend time with your loved ones and enjoy the game. If someone makes a mistake or misses a number, it's not a big deal – just keep the game going and enjoy the laughter and camaraderie.

Summary

In conclusion, hosting a bingo party Indian-style can be a great way to bring people together and have a fun-filled evening whilst enjoying one of the best games of them all! Just always remember to gamble responsibly and stop when the fun stops.