The word "Matka" originates from the Indian language and refers to a clay pot used in Indian gambling. As a type of gambling or lottery, Satta Matka games, also known as "Satta King," became popular in India long before the country gained its freedom. The original "Matka" game was played by wagering on the opening and closing cotton prices of the day, which were relayed to the Bombay Cotton Exchange using teleprinters.