If your first lessons in Mahjong were learned by cluelessly clicking tiles on a vintage family PC, this weekend might be the time to set things right. Inchin Closer, a language and culture institute, recognised by the People&rsquo;s Republic of China Consulate Mumbai, will host Chinese-origin Mumbai residents in a play-and-learn session.
<img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/feb/Senior-citizens_e.jpg" alt="Mahjong has found a loyal fanbase in the city, including groups of senior citizens. FILE PIC/ASHISH RAJE" width="1280" height="720" /> Mahjong has found a loyal fanbase in the city, including groups of senior citizens. FILE PIC/ASHISH RAJE
Founder Nazia Vasi, who has spent years in Shanghai, soaking in Chinese culture, tells us the Mahjong craze in China is much like India&rsquo;s love for the card game, Rummy. Mahjong is believed to have originated in the Qing Dynasty during the 1800s, and has since become a favourite among seniors and board game enthusiasts across the world.
<img src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/feb/Nazia-Vasi_e.jpg" alt="Nazia Vasi. PICS COURTESY/INCHIN CLOSER" width="1280" height="720" /> Nazia Vasi. PICS COURTESY/INCHIN CLOSER
As most imported traditions do, the game has picked up a Mumbai accent over time, giving rise to smaller circles of Bombay Mahjong that sit alongside Dubai Mahjong and American Mahjong variants. The session this weekend, however, is strictly traditional. The &lsquo;OG Mahjong&rsquo; as Vasi calls it, features four players, classic tiles, and a whole lot of brain racking.&nbsp;
ON February 28; 5 pm to 7 pm AT Mini Clubhouse, Royal Western India Turf Club, Mahalaxmi Racecourse.&nbsp; LOG ON TO inchincloser.com ENTRY Rs 1500
<h2>Why learn Mahjong?</h2>
Number game: The board game involves numbered tiles, making it an ideal way to memorise the Chinese number system.
Conversation starter: The game relies on drawing and shuffling tiles to create sequences. Conversations will flow naturally, promoting language exchange.
Let&rsquo;s talk business: Vasi suggests the game works wonders for businessmen looking to master money-talk. Mahjong can teach you how to bargain like a boss, even in a language you&rsquo;re not familiar with.

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