Online gambling in India, while growing exponentially, has become a much-debated subject. One which encompasses traditional history, heritage, and culture, region-wise bias, and a fragmented structural framework of regulation. With all the challenges surrounding online gambling, its growth in India sees no limits. There are popular sites and platforms hosting some of the most played games. Many sites and platforms operating on a global scale and now in India have made some recent offers for Indian players to make these sites attractive and appealing.
It is interesting to understand the trends that can provide valuable insights into the world of gambling in India. There is an integration between cultural heritage, traditional flavor, and legal framework, all bound together by technology.
Insight Into Popular Games In India
- Rummy:
Rummy is one of the most popular card games in India. It has many variations, each with a different set of rules. While there is generally no limitation to the number of players in each game, it is preferred that a smaller manageable group forms one set. Rummy offers a kind of strategic depth to itself. Considered to be a skill-based game, Rummy often requires players to be skilled and watchful of each and every move made by all players in the set. Sequencing of the cards in suits and melding is at the core of Rummy.
- Andar Bahar:
It actually means inside (andar) and outside (bahar), and is a card game known to test player speed and tact. Players are required to lay bets on the rank of a card which they expect to be drawn and matched from the side of the table (andar or bahar). It is a very widely liked and played game.
- Teen Patti:
Teen Patti is also known as Three Card Flush and Indian Poker. This is one of the most popular gambling card games in India. Normally played with a standard pack of cards, the rules and combination sequences can vary depending on the quorum. This game is played very widely during festivals, celebrations, and social gatherings.
- Slots:
A few states in India have legalized casinos and gambling. Most of these casinos have a variety of games of which slot machines find a large acceptance. Along with slot machines, these casinos also offer blackjack and roulette. There is a very strict regulatory framework for casinos in the specific states that they operate in.
- Online Sports Betting:
With a lot of fanfare around fantasy sports and virtually operated casinos, the number of players participating in sports betting, especially a sport like cricket, is fast becoming popular. Numerous online betting sites have mushroomed in India due to the love of a sport like cricket. There is still not much clarity on the regulatory framework of all the sports betting sites.
Some Player Preferences
- Skill vs Luck:
Games based on skill are more popular and much preferred as compared to those based on chance. This is simply because players believe they can control the outcome and the result of the game when it is dependent on their skill, which is why games like Teen Patti and Rummy find more participants. Another important aspect of player preference for skill-based games is user engagement and involvement throughout the game which aligns with the Indian trait of skill and strategy. They prefer not to leave anything to chance, in a manner of speaking.
- Online and Digital Gambling:
A substantially large section of the Indian diaspora carries digital devices and works on smart hand-held devices. Global and international marketing have been instrumental in raising gambling awareness and digitization in India. With the advent of online gambling, lots of Indians are now opting for the digital mode. Different platforms offering online card games, mobile casino games, fantasy sports, and real-time gambling in virtual casinos are gaining in popularity. Players prefer opt for online gambling due to the wide choice of games available and their ease of operation.
- Responsible Gambling and Protection:
Indian players prefer to opt for sites and platforms that are monitored by regulatory authorities because they focus not only on the legalities involved but also ensure player protection, control of underage participation, and offer assistance to addictive gamblers. Indian players prefer responsible gambling practices.
Like it is in other parts of the world, gambling in India has become widely accepted and participated in. While it may not be just a leisurely activity for many who participate in it, a large number of players get involved for engagement and enjoyment. India is on a growth path where online gambling is concerned. Popularity of online gambling will only keep rising in India due to the increase in smart phone use.
