For most of us, the term Satta Matka could sound alien and something of the unknown. But the reality is that this very term holds a very interesting little piece of history with it. Satta Matka is an illegal gambling game that originated in the 1950s involving betting on the opening and closing rates of cotton (yes, you heard that right!) that was transmitted via teleprinters from the New York Cotton Exchange to the Bombay Cotton Exchange.

The game was popularised soon after India’s Independence and at the time, was known as Ankada Jugar. The game was a big hit with mill workers as the textile industry had begun witnessing a boom, leading to several bookmakers setting up shop in and around the mills areas of Bombay. 

Modern-day Satta Matka has witnessed a major evolution and isn’t really the same as what it used to be. The game involves a random selection of numbers and betting. 

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Earlier, Satta was played by writing numbers between 0-9 on a piece of paper and then placed into a Matka (large earthen pitcher) after which an individual would draw a chit before going on to declare the winners. The modern-day version of the game sees three numbers drawn from a pack of playing cards. 

While the game was once upon a time well-known, due to government regulations that prohibit the game from being played, it is not as popular as it used to be.

FAQs

Q. Is it legal to play Satta Matka?

Ans. Certain government regulations have prohibited Satta Matka from being played in India although it is still played discreetly.

Q. What are the types of Satta Matka?

Ans. There are different types of Matkas including Single, Jodi and Patti. The game can also be played as half Satta and as full Sangam.

Q. Can I play Satta Matka online?

Ans. There are several Indian online betting sites that allow players to compete in Satta Matka.