‌Card-games have always been a favourite source of entertainment, with rummy being one of the most prominently played skill-based games in India. A reflection on the history of the rummy game can help you uncover many interesting things about it. It has quite an interesting history spanning over UK, America, right up to Spain. Although today Indians love to play rummy online, there have been many developments in the game over time. Let’s explore and find out how rummy evolved to how it is in the present day.

The Beginning
Although playing cards were introduced by the Chinese, rummy is believed to have originated from a Spanish/Mexican game ‘Conquian.’ Even the reputed card game expert “David Parlett” has confirmed this fact. It was then introduced by the Spanish immigrants to America where it gained huge popularity in a very short time during the 19th century. From America, the game made its way to UK, and then to the rest of the world.

Naming the Game
There are several theories around the naming of rummy game. Some believe it to be originating from Rum Poker, which was quite similar to the present-day rummy game. While others state that Britishers coined the term Rummy, from the word ‘Rum’ which means peculiar or odd. It is also believed that the word ‘Rhum’ first appeared in the 1900s and was later changed to rummy, as it is recognized today.

Introduction to India
The Mughals introduced card games to India, from where these gained a high popularity. The Mughals brought Ganjifa, a card game from Persia to India upon their arrival in the 16th century. The game had considerable similarities to rummy, such as the draw and discard format and the concept of sets and sequences. But the game became available for the masses during the colonial rule in India. But back the, most people considered rummy as a gambling game and refrained from playing the cash games. However, in 1967, the Supreme Court of India ruled that players need promising cognitive and reasoning skills for playing rummy, thereby deeming it legal to be played in India.

The Scenario Today
Today, even though people still love playing the game with actual cards, however their focus has shifted to the online platforms. With readily available games, the facility to play anytime, anywhere and millions of players joining the vibrant tables, online rummy has gained wide acceptance as the ideal source of entertainment and skill building in India. 

Conclusion
People who enjoy playing card games have also shown immense love for rummy, one of the oldest card games. The unique game is a favorite social pastime in India and has been through many variations over the course of history. The game is highly popular around the world, primarily because of its simplicity and the chance to win cash prizes. The history of rummy has been filled with many instances that have shaped up its present status. Now that you are aware of its intriguing history, why not get to the vibrant tables yourself, and start exploring the game online. You’ll most definitely love it!