Fidget spinners became internet famous almost overnight and even managed to hit the Bangladeshi market within a short span of time. While they might be all the rage now, and available readily thanks to our fellow Asian country, there have always been toys that we had around us with the same utility.

LATIM

The good old top was once very popular and those who mastered all the tricks were considered the coolest kids in the hood. Those days might be long gone but now is the best time to bring back the OG spinning toy. This toy required a lot more skill than just a flick and was probably more satisfying as a result. 

YO-YO

It took me a long time to remember this name and I'm just ancient enough to have owned one. I wasn't quite tall enough to manage to utilise mine but I remember my cousins owning a whole array, ranging from wooden ones to plastic ones that lit up and played music. Once upon a time, these were prized possessions and those who knew a trick or two were the people you needed to be friends with. Toy stores still sell these gems. Grab one and see if you can make it spin. You'll probably get the chance to do some arm workout in the process.

MAGNETIC MARBLES

These were made popular by vendors tossing them into the air and then catching them, with the two pieces coming into contact making a very distinct zoing sound. I don't know if these shiny, chrome spherical objects served any purpose beyond creating an annoying sound but everyone was hooked and the fad last quite some time. I'm pretty sure these are still sold in Cox's Bazar, where they first started appearing from, but it might be hard to find them now. I'm secretly grateful for that. 

BEYBLADES

The closest thing to the current fidget spinners is probably Beyblades. I don't remember watching a single episode of the cartoon but even I owned one and battled it out with my cousins. Random broken bits from the wrecked ones can still be found in my house. Good times! 

Fidget spinners may just turn out to be a fad that will go away soon. If you find yourself getting bored of your fidget toy, try an old school one till something new pops up on social media.

Nooha Sabanta Maula is an Anthropology major whose anthropologising has made her confused about life. Send her your thoughts to noohamaula@gmail.com