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Business Standard
03-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Tamil Nadu gaming rules upheld: Aadhaar KYC, time bans get Madras HC nod
The Madras High Court has upheld the Tamil Nadu government's recent regulations on the real-money gaming (RMG) sector, including mandatory Aadhaar verification and a ban on online gaming between midnight and 6 am. The ruling is a major setback for several online gaming companies that had challenged the rules, Bar and Bench reported. A Bench of Justices SM Subramaniam and J Rajashekar dismissed all the petitions filed by companies such as Games24x7, Junglee Games, Head Digital Works, WinZO, and the Esports Players Welfare Association (EPWA). The companies had argued that the rules were unfair and infringed on users' privacy. The court said the state has the power to regulate online games like Rummy and Poker, especially when played for real money, citing concerns over public health and suicides linked to excessive gaming. It noted that although the Centre's IT rules on online gaming are yet to come into force, Tamil Nadu's regulations 'fill the legal vacuum'. 'The State cannot remain a mute spectator when people are facing mental and physical harm,' the court observed. Addressing the privacy concerns raised by gaming companies, the HC bench referred to the landmark Puttaswamy judgment, which recognised privacy as a fundamental right. However, the court clarified that the right to privacy is not absolute and can be subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public welfare. 'Though personal autonomy must be respected, it cannot override the need to protect citizens' health,' the court added. Key features of the Tamil Nadu rules The Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority, set up in 2022, had issued detailed regulations on real-money gaming platforms, aimed at curbing excessive play and protecting users. The rules mandate: -Platforms must block access between midnight and 6 am -Players must complete KYC verification using Aadhaar, with an additional OTP sent to the linked mobile number -Minors are prohibited from playing real-money games -Platforms must let players set daily, weekly, and monthly monetary limits -Apps must display caution messages every 30 minutes after one hour of play, and continuously show that 'online gaming is addictive in nature" -Apps must clearly display users' total spending each time they deposit money, in 'reasonably bold letters' These regulations come after the high court had previously set aside a blanket ban on online Rummy and Poker in November 2023, allowing the state to regulate the time spent and age limits for these games, the news report said. India's gaming industry India's gaming sector is booming, with revenues rising to $3.8 billion in FY24 — a 22.6 per cent increase from $3.1 billion the previous year, according to Lumikai, a gaming and interactive media venture fund, Moneycontrol reported. Real-money gaming accounted for $2.4 billion of this revenue. The sector is projected to reach $9.2 billion by FY29, growing at 20 per cent annually.
Hindustan Times
03-06-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Top Reasons Why Bettors Are Switching to Mahadev Book in 2025
India, June 3, 2025: The betting world may be old, but it gained popularity in recent years following the establishment of the IPL in 2007. Since then, the betting market has witnessed an exceptional surge, with a growing interest in sports. Mahadev Book is the best platform for players seeking security, speed, transparency, and ease at their fingertips. It provides a smoother, more innovative, and more rewarding experience. Here's Why Mahadev Book Has Become Bettors' Top Choice in 2025 Increased digitalization has encouraged users to seek a platform that delivers security backed by 24/7 customer support. Mahadev Book became Better's Top Choice in 2025 because of its services. 1. User-Centred Interface That Makes Browsing Easy Mahadev Book interface was designed for first time bettors as well as those managing multiple teams. Clean menus, fast navigation, and simply labelled betting markets give them the confidence that they are not wasting time trying to figure out a platform. The platform is also optimized for mobile ensuring that users can bet even through their phones. Additionally, real-time updates and impossibly quick transitions between markets make it the most engaging betting interface. 2. Mahadev Book ID Sign Up and Registration The sign-up process for Mahadev Book literally takes a few minutes, while existing users can simply log-in with a one-time password (OTP) verification. This excludes the hassle of having to remember passwords, as users just need to enter the registered number for an OTP. The unique user ID that opens up a personalized dashboard depending on user activity, allowing them to see their bets, transaction history, view live odds, and claim bonuses. 3. Incredible Bonuses and Promotions Mahadev Book definitely knows how to treat their players right, right from day one. New players are welcomed with bonuses intended to boost their bankroll. It gives players that extra bump in their bankroll, allowing them to feel confident in exploring and betting. While also giving the opportunity for them to earn more through referral programs. Frequently available limited-time promotions during large sporting events and casino games increase the chances of winning for the users through enhanced odds, free bets and cashback offers. 4. The Expansive Betting Market: Not Limited to Cricket Betting And Live Casino The Mahadev Book provides a diverse, thrilling betting environment for sport and casino bettors alike. If in-play betting suits their thrill capital, the liveliness and changing odds in-play betting offers can change with every move, giving plenty of room for a timely bet. The platform also caters to those looking for casino glamour, Mahadev Book also delivers the Vegas to users through their live casino games like Blackjack, Roulette, Poker, and others. 5. Trusted Transactions and Fast Withdrawals All kinds of payment methods, from UPI and NetBanking to popular mobile wallets, are supported by Mahadev Book for the fastest and most convenient deposits and withdrawals for every user. With a fast processing time, users don't need to wait long between winning and cashing out. 6. 24/7 Customer Service You Can Count On Mahadev Book ensures that experts will be available to speak to users via live chat, email, and phone, in a language that they are comfortable in. It doesn't matter if they have logging in or payment problems, or issues regarding any aspect of the game; real-time help is only a click or a phone call away. 7. Secure and Responsible Gambling Environment Mahadev Book is committed to your security via end-to-end data encryption that keeps your personal and financial data secure at all times. KYC verification, keeps the account safe and creates a safer gaming environment for everyone. Additional features include deposit limits, session time reminders, and self-exclusion tools. 8. Actual User Reviews Provide Credibility Bettors from across India are reporting very good experiences - whether it's related to their interface, prompt payouts, or quality support. These actual testimonials reflect the quality of the interface for reliability and usability, and build trust by engaging communities together. This swell of positive user experience is a testament to Mahadev Book's establishing them as a trusted platform among Indian bettors. Takeaway: Bet Smarter with Mahadev Book Betting with Mahadev Book is not just about wagering, but it's about betting faster, smarter, and with confidence. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned player, Mahadev Book offers you the edge and tools to make every bet count. Are you ready to try a platform built for you? Take the plunge for free and see for yourself, this is why 2025 is the year bettors are shifting. Your smartest bet starts here. Mahadev Book is changing the game for how online betting will look in India. Disclaimer: This article is sponsored content curated by HT Syndication. The inputs and details accounted for in the article do not necessarily reflect those of HT, and HT does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the information provided. First Published Date: 03 Jun, 15:15 IST
India Today
03-06-2025
- Business
- India Today
Government's gaming rules valid, privacy can't surpass health: Madras High Court
The Madras High Court upheld restrictions imposed by the Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority, including mandatory Aadhaar verification and a ban on online gaming between midnight and 6 am. The verdict comes as a major setback to several online gaming companies that had challenged the rules.A bench comprising Justices SM Subramaniam and J Rajashekar ruled that the state has the power to regulate online games like Rummy and Poker, especially when played for real money, citing concerns over public health and suicides linked to excessive of Tamil Nadu Online Gaming Authority, established in 2022 to regulate the online gaming sector, prohibit gameplay during certain hours and make Aadhaar verification mandatory for user identification – measures the court deemed necessary, citing the 'negative impact' of online gaming as flagged by an expert committee. The court observed that although the Centre's IT rules on online gaming are yet to come into force, Tamil Nadu's regulations 'fill the legal vacuum.'It added that the state is empowered to regulate trade and commerce within its borders, particularly when it concerns citizens' health and its judgment, the bench said, 'The State cannot remain a mute spectator when people are facing mental and physical harm.'Addressing arguments about violation of privacy, the court referred to the landmark Puttaswamy judgment, which recognised it as a fundamental right, saying the right to privacy is not absolute and can be subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public welfare.'Though personal autonomy must be respected, it cannot override the need to protect citizens' health,' the court said while dismissing the petitions filed by online gaming InMust Watch IN THIS STORY#Tamil Nadu
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Donegal Momentum Aims For Graded Breakthrough In Poker
Donegal Momentum Aims For Graded Breakthrough In Poker originally appeared on Paulick Report. Donegal Racing's Donegal Momentum looks to make the grade in Thursday's $300,000 Poker (G3), a one-mile inner turf test for older horses on Day 2 of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga Race Course. Advertisement Trained by Tom Morley, the 4-year-old Uncle Mo dark bay has made three graded stakes attempts, his best finish a one-length third in the Hollywood Derby (G1) going nine furlongs in November at Del Mar. That effort capped a strong sophomore campaign highlighted by a two-length score in the one-mile turf Gio Ponti at Belmont at the Big A. 'The Poker was his second main target of the year after the Grade 1 Maker's Mark Mile at Keeneland which we opted to skip due to having to run against Carl Spackler on soft ground,' said Morley. 'The Poker has been our main focus for much of this year and since he came back as a 4-year-old.' Donegal Momentum returned for his 4-year-old season successfully when taking an about one-mile optional-claimer on March 6 at Fair Grounds. He subsequently misfired on the main track in the seven-furlong Grade 2 Carter ahead of a last-out half-length second to returning rival Sherlock's Jewel in a one-mile optional claimer on good turf May 8 at Belmont at the Big A. Last out, Donegal Momentum dueled with Big Everest on the front end through the opening half-mile and led into the final sixteenth before being run down by Sherlock's Jewel. Advertisement 'Race dynamics got him beat last time,' said Morley. 'I'm really looking forward to possibly getting this horse on a firm turf course. He has been plagued by rain for the past year, and has never actually run on a genuinely firm turf course other than California where one mile and an eighth was too far for him.' Hall of Famer Javier Castellano, who has piloted Donegal Momentum in all eight starts other than the Gio Ponti, returns to ride from post 8. Out of the stakes-placed Malibu Moon mare Moon Dash, Donegal Momentum was a $375,000 purchase at the 2022 Keeneland September Yearling Sale by Donegal Racing, who campaigned 2017 Poker winner Ballagh Rocks. Wharton Connell Racing's Kentucky homebred Sherlock's Jewel [post 6, Dylan Davis] entered his aforementioned score over Donegal Momentum from a similar closing victory in a one-mile optional-claimer in March at Gulfstream Park. Trained by Hall of Famer Shug McGaughey, the 5-year-old Lea gelding successfully shifted back to turf after a past campaign of four dirt efforts, including a second to multimillionaire Skippylongstocking in Tampa Bay Downs' Grade 3 Challenger. Advertisement 'He seems to be doing good,' said McGaughey. 'We decided to try dirt at Tampa and then in the stakes and he ran good. I think he favored the dirt course at Tampa, I'm not sure if that's something I'd try again, maybe an off-the-turf race, but he favors the turf.' Spendthrift Farm's multiple graded stakes winner Major Dude [post 4, Irad Ortiz Jr.] looks for his first win of 2025 in his fifth attempt. Trained by Hall of Famer Todd Pletcher, the 5-year-old Bolt d'Oro bay missed by a nose to next out graded-winner Fort Washington three starts back in the 1 1/16-mile Grade 3 Canadian Turf in March at Gulfstream Park. Most recently Major Dude was a two-length third in the one-mile Listed Opening Verse on May 1 at Churchill Downs. 'He's as consistent as they come. He's in good form, so we'll try again,' said Pletcher, who has won this event three times. 'He's a consummate pro. He shows up every time and comes out every morning ready to train. I think his ideal trip is to have a little pace to run at where you can cover him up. Unfortunately, he didn't get much pace at Churchill last time, which compromised his chances.' Major Dude holds a career record of 22-7-4-3 with in excess of $1.1 million in earnings, capturing the 2022 Grade 2 Pilgrim at Belmont at the Big A, the 2023 Grade 3 Kitten's Joy at Gulfstream and the Grade 2 Penn Mile at Penn National, as well as the Grade 2 Fort Lauderdale last year at Gulfstream. Advertisement Gary Barber, Wachtel Stable and Peter Deutsch's Grade 1-placed Filo Di Arianna [post 3, Jose Ortiz] is set for the second start of his 9-year-old season. Trained by Hall of Famer Mark Casse, the Grade 1-placed Drosselmeyer gelding was a pacesetting neck second to Emmanuel in this event in 2023. 'He's at the top of his game. He's just starting to get warmed up,' said Casse, who saddled Ice Chocolat to wire the past edition of the Poker. 'He's just a really good horse and he loves what he does. He's all racehorse.' The Brazilian-bred Filo Di Arianna, a four-time Grade 2-winner at Woodbine Racetrack at distances ranging from six furlongs to one mile, was second to Canadian Horse of the Year Patches O'Houlihan last out in the Thorncliffe sprinting 5 1/2 furlongs on Tapeta on May 4 there. Advertisement A relatively new face to watch out for is the French-bred Intellect [post 2, Flavien Prat] for five-time Eclipse Award-winning trainer Chad Brown. The 4-year-old Intello gelding was third in a 1 1/16-mile allowance on April 24 at Keeneland when making his stateside and barn debut. He rallied from 8th-of-12 to miss second by a nose. Intellect came from the care of Henri-Francois Devin, who sent him out to win the Listed Prix du Pont Neuf in front-running fashion last April at Longchamp. He is owned by Madaket Stables, Michael Dubb, and Steven Bouchey. Rounding out the field are dual graded stakes-placed Cameo Performance [post 1, Manny Franco], who is cross-entered in the Grade 3 Arlington on May 31 at Churchill Downs for trainer Brendan Walsh; Grade 3-placed Depiction [post 7, John Velazquez] for conditioner Cherie DeVaux; and Mischievous Angel [post 5, Paco Lopez] for trainer Jorge Abreu. Yo Daddy and Magnolia Midnight are entered for the main track-only. This story was originally reported by Paulick Report on May 31, 2025, where it first appeared.
The Hindu
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
‘Ace' movie review: Vijay Sethupathi, Yogi Babu cannot save this middling comedy-thriller
Imagine an ordinary person, poor, lonely and single, naively daydreaming about situations as follows. What if I could fly to a foreign country, preferably with a large Tamil diaspora, like Malaysia, and meet a stunningly gorgeous woman, like that actress from Sapta Saagardaache Ello? It would be a bummer if our paths don't cross often, and so what if she lives opposite my house and we take the same train to reach our day jobs? Also, what if she needs a lot of money, and I become a prince charming with godly luck at Poker, or, say, rob a bank? After all, it's a dream, so I get to decide how outlandish my story can be. This is largely how the story of Ace pans out. If convenient writing is a game of poker, Ace is a royal flush. Yet despite a ridiculous storyline, this is a surprisingly entertaining film till a point (far better than what the trailer suggested). Four things work well in its favour. First, it features Yogi Babu at his comedic best. As Arivukarasan, the actor is riotous throughout the film, and nine out of 10 jokes land with impeccable timing. Then comes the lead romantic pair, Vijay Sethupathi and Rukmini Vasanth, who are adorably cute as 'Bolt' Kannan and Rukmini. They charm their way through the film with the smallest expressions — watch how hesitantly Vijay grins when Rukmini first waves at him from her balcony — and somehow make you forgive scenes with lazy writing. Indeed, their playful banter throughout the 'Urugudhu Urugudhu' song makes you crave a rom-com. Speaking of songs, Justin Prabhakaran's music plays a vital role in elevating the film's mood. He sticks to his assignment, and the background score makes its presence felt without seeking much attention. Finally, writer-director Arumugakumar does show occasional flair in scene writing, and a knack for suspense that could have come in handy in a better film. Ace (Tamil) Director: Arumugakumar Cast: Vijay Sethupathi, Rukmini Vasanth, Yogi Babu, BS Avinash Runtime: 156 minutes Storyline: To save his girlfriend from her abusive stepfather and to save himself from a loan shark, a man attempts to steal money from a bank in Malaysia, only to land in trouble Though all this keeps the film afloat until intermission, they fail to sustain a material so thin, and, at times, even tedious. Interesting ideas are introduced without much follow-up, like Kannan's top-tier Poker skills. Arivu's employment as a sanitation worker, the restaurant their friend and well-wisher, Kalpana (Divya Pillai), owns, or the drug cartel run by Dharma (BS Avinash; as a kingpin who traps Kannan and Arivu in a huge debt), are all settings we are introduced to but with no roles to play in the larger scheme of things. A sub-plot about Rajadurai (Babloo Prithviraj; as Rukmini's obnoxious stepfather and police officer) blackmailing a young girl with her sex tape takes up so much space, only to become conspicuously unnecessary. Everything derails when the film takes itself too seriously by attempting to be a suspenseful heist thriller. In fact, Ace has all the necessary ingredients to become a good romantic caper, but it never finds its tone. A serious thriller with an innovative heist is one thing, and an out-and-out comedy where the plan goes hilariously wrong is another. Ace is neither. Its flaws are evident in two central action sequences. One happens when Kannan and Arivu are chased by Durai's men, while the other is an elaborate escape plan. You either laugh at everything silly Yogi Babu does or utters, or you miss him whenever Arumugakumar attempts to conjure a Mission: Impossible out of thin air. At one point, Arivu, distressed by Kannan persistently asking him to trust his hush-hush plans, quips, 'ennada plan'u plan'u nutu, enna maati vidradhu dhana da unnoda plan'u?' This, and how Ace wishes to reveal information about its mysterious protagonist, pretty much sums up the film as well — it keeps its cards close to the chest, reveals some, throws away the rest, and declares itself a winner. Ace is currently running in theatres
