Election Tamasha: India’s Political Debate Now a Satirical Strategy Board Game

February 18, Mumbai (Maharashtra): Politics has always been one of India’s most popular conversations. From chai stalls to family dinners, elections spark arguments, alliances, humour, and heated strategy. For board-game lovers, elections offer an irresistible theme and for political enthusiasts, playing a board game built around campaigning and power play introduces an entirely new way to experience the subject.

While mobile games dominate personal screens, election-themed board gaming brings people back to the table. Players must negotiate, react, and strategise face-to-face, making every decision social, unpredictable, and deeply engaging.

From Political Conversations to Playable Strategy

India’s growing board-game culture has already seen success stories like SHASN, a widely discussed political strategy game known for its serious, ideology-driven gameplay. Election Tamasha, however, takes a different path. Instead of focusing on policy building or moral dilemmas, it leans into satire and the colourful realities of election campaigns. Players encounter caste equations, religion, campaign funds, strongmen, breaking news, allegations, and even horse-trading, all the elements that make elections dramatic, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating.

Turning Real Election Dynamics into Social Entertainment

The concept took shape when Ajay Ambekar of Ajjo Creations LLP discovered the thriving board-game culture during a visit to the United States. Drawing on decades of close observation of India’s political ecosystem, he envisioned a game that could transform everyday political discussions into interactive entertainment. That idea evolved into Election Tamasha, a fast-paced experience that mirrors the thrill of real electoral contests.

Gameplay places participants in the role of party high commands battling across multiple constituencies. Using cards, coins, labels, and pawns, players navigate alliances, strategy shifts, and unexpected twists over sessions lasting 30 to 75 minutes. Unlike digital games where players can silently exit, the board-game format demands conversation, negotiation, and live reactions — making every match feel lively and personal.

A New Chapter in India’s Board Game Revival

As board-game cafés and communities continue to expand across India, socially driven games are gaining momentum among adults seeking meaningful entertainment beyond screens. Election Tamasha taps directly into this shift, turning politics from a discussion topic into a shared social experience.

For those who enjoy strategy, satire, and spirited conversations, copies of the game can be booked at a discounted rate through electiontamasha.co.in,  inviting players to stop just debating elections and start contesting them at the table.