In a historical context, cowrie shells have been used by many different civilizations as a form of currency. However, to my family, they have a deeper meaning. In India, cowrie shells, or "kaudi" shells, are often used as game tokens in a variety of games. My great-grandmother gifted me my very own set of cowrie shells when I was about three years old. At every family reunion, my relatives and I would play a game called "Palanguzhi" with these shells, as it was my great grandmother’s favorite game.  I specifically remember playing it with my chittapa, or paternal uncle. He was the one who taught me how to play, because my great-grandmother was often busy as the head of the household. 
To me, it represented an instant mood-booster; the sound of joyous laughter, clanking shells, and competitive remarks always put a smile on my face, even though I didn’t completely understand the game at that young age. After the passing of my great grandmother due to cancer, the laughter and clanking slowly ceased, but we still hold those beautiful memories close to heart. 

– SV

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant