Suvarna Garge (Editor)

Upeet

Updated on
Edit
Like
Comment
Share on FacebookTweet on TwitterShare on LinkedInShare on Reddit

Upeet is a Tamil (specifically, Madras Bashai) term used by players of tops in Chennai (formerly Madras), Tamil Nadu. It refers to a smooth rope-aided action that transfers the spinning top from the ground to the player's open palm, while continuing to spin. It is considered to be a fairly advanced manoeuvre.

Contents

The Move

The aim of upeet is to transport a spinning top from the ground to the player's open palm. Further, the top is supposed to continue spinning for a while on the palm, with the spinning axis in the vertical position.

The manoeuvre relies on the thread that was used to spin the top. This thread is looped around the top's tip and then tightened appropriately. In a deft move, the players lifts the rope and deposits the spinning top on his/her open palm.

Etymology

The term is possibly derived, like several words in Madras Bashai, from English. 'Up' and 'it' are the possible constituent words - when said using the accent of the region, the 'i' syllable is frequently pronounced as 'ee' ('catch eet' for 'catch it', for instance). 'Up it' itself might have its origins in street cricket to indicate to a fielder that he/she must catch the ball before it pitches, and consequently get the batsperson out.

References

Upeet Wikipedia