History:
Isindi is a traditional equestrian game from Georgia played between two teams of horsemen. It involves a spear-like weapon called “isindi” and is characterized by skillful and quick maneuvers on horseback. The game showcases the horsemanship and precision of the riders, providing a fascinating spectacle for spectators.
Rules:
Isindi is played on a square playground between two teams of six riders each. Teams line up on opposite sides of a start line. The game begins with a "challenger" who attempts to throw the “isindi” at a rival rider or horse. The rival rider responds by galloping and throwing their “isindi”. Only galloping riders can throw “isindi”. After throwing, riders must race back to their team while avoiding counter-attacks. If a rider drops the “isindi”, they leave the game. Riders who fall can continue if they catch and remount their horse without assistance but lose the right to throw “”isindi. The game is overseen by referees who use whistles to control play. It is forbidden to seize, hit, or prick with “isindi”, or to shout. The winner is the team that hits the rival with the “isindi” the most times within the agreed time.
