Today, carrom enjoys a vibrant presence all across the globe. In countries with big South Asian populations, like the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia, carrom can often be found at family gatherings and cultural events.
In Europe, carrom is popular in countries like France, Germany, and Italy, where local clubs meet to play regularly. In Africa, carrom is enjoyed in countries like Kenya and South Africa, where it serves as both a recreational activity and a competitive sport.
Some countries have adapted carrom into their own unique styles, adding regional twists to the game. In Sri Lanka, for example, "cross carrom" is popular, where players use pool cues to strike the carrom coins. In the Maldives, carrom is played with a smaller board and lighter coins, making the game faster and more dynamic. These regional adaptations speak volumes about the game's versatility and ability to resonate with many different cultures. Despite its many variations, the fundamental elements of carrom—coins, strikers, pockets, and playing with fingers—remain the same, preserving the essence of the original game.
Instagram and TikTok have also played a big role in carrom's global spread. Carrom communities online share tutorials, trick shots, and competitive highlights. Social media has helped demystify the game for newcomers and foster a global network of players and fans.
Several organizations and federations work to promote carrom globally. The International Carrom Federation (ICF), founded in India in 1988, plays a crucial role in organizing international tournaments and setting standardized rules. National federations, such as the United States Carrom Federation (USCF) and the United Kingdom Carrom Federation (UKSF), support regional players and organize local events.
Carrom is a centuries-old global tradition that continues to thrive today. If you haven't played yet (or it’s just been a while), now is the perfect time to pick up a striker and join in the fun. Let’s play carrom!
Check out our other posts about the History of Carrom and Carrom in India and Carrom in the US to learn more!