Monsoon Bets: Unraveling the History of Rain Gambling in India

Rain gambling, or "Barsat ka Satta", originated in Rajasthan, where the Marwari community, facing perennial water scarcity, speculated on monsoon patterns. It spread to Calcutta (now known as Kolkata) in the 1800s, faced British opposition in Bombay (now known as Mumbai), and led to a court victory for Marwari rain gamblers. Despite protests, legislative amendments caused its decline and eventual ban in Calcutta by 1900. This unique chapter in gambling history reflects human adaptability amid monsoon unpredictability, serving as a nostalgic reminder of India's early weather derivatives.