The History of Satta Matka: Did It Start in India or the US?

When people think of gambling in India, one of the first names that often comes to mind is Satta Matka. This iconic betting game has captivated the imagination of gamblers for decades, but have you ever wondered where it actually began? 

Did the origins lie in India, or was it influenced by something outside the country, perhaps the United States? In this article, we’ll explore the history of Satta Matka, tracing its roots and transformation from cotton rates to playing cards.

Where Did Satta Matka Began?

To truly understand the history of Satta Matka, we have to go back to the 1950s. Surprisingly, the game didn’t start in the narrow alleys of Mumbai or among underground gamblers. Instead, it was tied to international trade, specifically, the New York Cotton Exchange.

During this time, Indian bettors used to place wagers on the opening and closing prices of cotton that were transmitted daily via teleprinters from New York to the Bombay Cotton Exchange. 

Satta Matka was a completely legitimate system, but one that provided the thrill of betting on numbers. This early form of number gambling was known as "Ankada Jugar”.

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The History of Satta Matka: Shift to India

Things took a turn in 1961 when the New York Cotton Exchange stopped sharing the cotton rate data. With the main component of their betting system gone, Indian punters looked for a way to keep the excitement alive. 

That’s when Satta Matka gambling evolved into a more localized version. Instead of cotton rates, numbers were randomly drawn to decide the winners. 

How the Matka Game Worked:

1. Numbers from 0 to 9 were written on paper slips and placed in a large earthen pot, known as a matka.

2. A single person would draw a chit from the pot and announce the winning number.

3. Eventually, this system evolved further, and playing cards were used instead of chits, adding more variation and randomness.

The name "matka" remained unchanged, even though the method of drawing numbers had completely transformed.

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Rise of Satta Matka in Mumbai's Textile Era

As Mumbai’s textile mills started booming, the Satta Matka business found its stronghold. Mill workers, looking for some entertainment and extra income, became active participants in the game. 

This led to the emergence of full-blown matka dens and bookie shops near mill areas. Before long, Central Mumbai became the heartbeat of the Satta Matka business.

From the 1980s to the 1990s, Satta Matka reached its peak, with major figures like Ratan Khatri becoming household names, even dubbed as Matka Kings for their dominance in the scene. 

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The History of Satta Matka: Gambling in India

It’s worth noting that gambling has been illegal in India since the Public Gambling Act of 1867, a law introduced during British rule. 

However, enforcement has always been a challenge. Despite its illegal status, the popularity of Satta Matka endured, thanks to its simplicity and deep integration into local culture.

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Conclusion

So, did Satta Matka start in India or the US? The answer is a bit of both. While the betting was done in India, the data that fueled the early system came from the New York Cotton Exchange in the US. 

Once that source dried up, the Indian gambling community adapted, reinventing the game into what we know today as Satta Matka.

The history of Satta Matka is a fascinating blend of international influence, local innovation, and cultural evolution. From cotton rates to cards, from Mumbai’s mills to underground dens, Matka has traveled a long way, and continues to exist in many corners of India even today.

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FAQ

What is Satta Matka?

Satta Matka is a form of lottery and betting that involves selecting random numbers to win money. It originated in the 1950s.

Did Satta Matka start in the US?

While the original betting involved cotton rates from the New York Cotton Exchange, the game itself evolved and was played in India, especially in Mumbai.

Why is it called Matka?

The name “Matka” comes from the traditional earthen pot used to draw paper slips with numbers.

Is Satta Matka legal in India?

No, gambling in India is illegal under the Public Gambling Act of 1867. However, it still persists in some regions in underground formats.

Who are some famous figures in Satta Matka history?

Ratan Khatri and Kalyanji Bhagat are among the most well-known names, often credited with shaping modern Matka gambling.