Satta Matka is a notorious numbers-based gambling game that originated in Mumbai during the 1960s and has since evolved into a widespread underground betting network across India. Initially linked to wagers on cotton market rates, it later adopted a lottery-style number draw that continues today, often through digital platforms. Although banned under Indian gambling laws, it attracts thousands with the lure of quick profits, while leaving behind a trail of debt, legal trouble, and social harm. This article examines its history, risks, and the lasting impact on society.
