New Delhi, August 10 (UNI) – The story of a Bengaluru tea-seller who won ₹25 lakh at a Goa casino, only to be allegedly kidnapped by his own friends, has brought into sharp focus the dramatic expansion of casino culture in India. What was once considered an exclusive pastime of the wealthy is now attracting a growing number of middle-class Indians, reflecting broader changes in the country's economic and social landscape.
The case of Tilak M Manikanta, a 32-year-old tea vendor from Bengaluru, reads like a cautionary tale. After winning a life-changing sum at a Panaji casino, Manikanta found himself at the center of a criminal investigation when his travel companions allegedly kidnapped him and forced him to part with ₹15 lakh of his winnings. The Hanumanthanagar police have registered a case under multiple sections of the IPC, including kidnapping and extortion, as they search for the accused.
This incident highlights a significant shift in India's gambling demographics. Industry observers note that casinos in Goa, Sikkim and Daman are seeing increasing numbers of visitors from middle-class backgrounds, including small business owners and salaried professionals. The change is being driven by several factors, including rising disposable incomes, the integration of casinos into mainstream tourism offerings, and changing social attitudes toward gambling.
Anand Sharma, Editor in Chief of indian casino information site SevenJackpots.com mentions:
"Rummy and Teen Patti have always been woven into the fabric of Indian social gatherings - from Diwali celebrations to family functions. What we're seeing now is a natural evolution, as more Indians discover casino classics like blackjack and roulette through both physical venues and online platforms. This isn't about abandoning our traditional games, but rather expanding our gaming culture to include new experiences while maintaining that essential spirit of play that's always been part of our society."
Economic data tells part of the story. With India's per capita income having doubled since 2014-15, more families now have discretionary funds available for leisure activities. At the same time, improved air connectivity and the proliferation of affordable holiday packages have made casino destinations accessible to a wider segment of the population. Industry sources report that nearly half of all casino visitors now come from middle-class backgrounds, a dramatic shift from just a few years ago when the clientele was dominated by high-net-worth individuals.
However, this expansion has not come without challenges. Mental health professionals report rising cases of gambling addiction, particularly in cities with easy access to casino destinations. Financial counselors note an increase in distress cases linked to gambling losses, while law enforcement agencies face new challenges related to crimes associated with casino winnings, as illustrated by the Manikanta case.
The regulatory landscape remains complex. While states like Goa benefit significantly from casino licensing fees, estimated at ₹500 crore annually, policymakers continue to grapple with the social costs of expanded gambling access. The central government is currently reviewing the 1867 Public Gambling Act, with potential amendments expected to address both physical and online gambling platforms.
As India's economy continues to grow, the casino industry's expansion presents both opportunities and challenges. Stories like Manikanta's serve as powerful reminders of the life-changing potential of gambling wins, but also of the risks that accompany them. The coming years will likely see continued debate about how to balance economic benefits with social protections in this evolving sector.
For now, the Hanumanthanagar police continue their investigation into the alleged kidnapping, even as thousands of other Indians prepare to test their luck at casino tables across the country. Their experiences may well shape the future of gambling regulation in India, as policymakers work to keep pace with the rapid changes in this controversial industry.