Dissecting one of Asia’s most beloved games
Before WhatsApp groups, social media invites and endless notifications, there was carrom. The classic tabletop game that turned living rooms, tea stalls and family gatherings into arenas of friendly competition is now in Dubai, thanks to Subko’s latest community initiative.
As an ode to this beloved social practice, the specialty coffee brand is introducing a dedicated carrom series designed to encourage people to disconnect from screens and reconnect with one another – one flick at a time.
A Game That Travelled the World
Carrom’s roots are believed to trace back to India’s royal courts during the 18th and 19th centuries. Over the decades, the game spread across continents, finding homes in the Gulf, East Asia, Europe and beyond. Known as Kayram in parts of the Middle East, Karomu in Japan and by other regional variations worldwide, the game has remained remarkably universal in its appeal.
For generations, carrom has been a fixture in homes and neighbourhood gathering spots, cutting across age groups and social backgrounds. The familiar click of the carrommen, the smooth glide of a striker across a boric-acid-dusted board and the inevitable family rivalries that follow are memories many still cherish.
A Lesson in Nostalgia
A Lesson in Nostalgia
Carrom in the modern day has slowly evolved into a fixture of longing - propped up in one corner of the room, gathering dust and particles of the memories it helped create. In this age of instant virtual gratification, people don't want to play the game of patience.
Why Subko?
The initiative feels like a natural fit for Subko, whose Dubai outpost has quickly become one of Alserkal Avenue’s most interesting new cultural spaces.
Founded by Rahul Reddy, Subko was created to champion Indian coffee and spotlight producers often overlooked in the global speciality coffee conversation. The Dubai location, its first international outpost, continues that mission through coffee roasting, baking and chocolate-making, all carried out on-site under one roof.
The warm, earthy space is designed around craft and community, offering visitors the chance to watch roasters, bakers and chocolatiers at work while enjoying carefully sourced coffees from across India.
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More Than A Cafe
The upcoming carrom series falls under Subculture by Subko, the brand’s cultural platform that brings together artists, designers, musicians and creatives through events, collaborations and community gatherings.
It’s an extension of what Subko stands for: creating meaningful connections through shared experiences. This time, those connections just happen to involve a striker, a wooden board and perhaps a little healthy competition.
The first night takes place tonight, with more dates for the carrom series expected to be announced soon. If nostalgia, community and a bit of old-school fun sound like your thing, you’ll want to keep an eye on this one.
Image credit: Pinterest
Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
Contact me: zainab@nommemag.com
