Telaber

Telaber is a traditional Persian board game that originated in Iran and is widely played across the Middle East and Central Asia. The game is known by various names in different regions, including *Taleh* in Afghanistan, *Taleh* or *Taleh-e Bazi* in Iran, and *Taleh* or *Taleh-e Chaharsang* in Tajikistan. It is often played by two players and involves strategy, luck, and a degree of skill in movement and capture.

The game is played on a board consisting of a grid, typically 8x8 or 10x10 squares, with additional spaces for starting positions. Each player controls a set of pieces, usually 16 in total, which are placed on the board at the beginning of the game. The objective is to move one’s pieces to the opposite side of the board while capturing the opponent’s pieces. Pieces move diagonally forward, and captures are made by jumping over an opponent’s piece, similar to checkers or draughts.

Telaber shares similarities with other ancient strategy games like *Alquerque*, an early ancestor of draughts, and is believed to have evolved from similar games played in ancient Persia. It is often considered a cultural and social activity, played during gatherings, celebrations, and family events. The game’s simplicity and accessibility make it popular among all age groups, though it also requires tactical thinking to master.

Variations of Telaber exist, with some regions introducing different rules or board layouts. Despite these differences, the core principles of movement, capture, and strategic positioning remain consistent. The game continues to be enjoyed as a nostalgic pastime and a way to preserve cultural heritage in many communities.