Bollywood has always had a fascination with gamblers and casinos, as it’s the place where fortunes can turn quickly, and gives the directors an opportunity to add twists to the story.
Most Bollywood thriller movies have scenes around casinos & themes around gambling.
Casinos in Bollywood
There are several Indian movies which had casinos playing an important part in the narratives and scripts. Here are some of the prominent movies which were shot in/around casinos:
Where Were They Shot?
Most of these have been shot at prominent locations (known for Gambling/Casinos).
So what about our Superstars? Do you think they’re heavily into gambling?
No way! Well, they do indulge in a few rounds once in a while, like any of us, if they’re shooting at locations such as Las Vegas or Macau.
Gambling & Mythology / Culture
Gambling is definitely among the oldest forms of entertainment and leisure known to mankind. They’ve also played a major role in the formation of nations and have been the cause of several battles around the world.
Several instances from mythology and popular folklore of cultures around the world suggest that gambling did play a major role in the lives of people.
Here’s how gambling is perceived in various parts of the world:
Gambling in India
It’s definitely considered a vice in India (especially among the financially weaker sections) but occasionally (even during Diwali) many indulge in it. In the Mahabharata (greatest epics of the Hindu religion) the Kauravas and the Pandavas take part in a game of dice, where the Pandavas lose everything, their kingdom, their right to rule and are sent to exile.
It’s seen as a turning point in the story and is one of the reasons why the Kauravas and the Pandavas go to war (that lasts for 18-days).
The Greek Perspective
Unlike India, they don’t perceive it as a vice, but more of a fun activity, and in ancient Greece it was an important form of entertainment.
It is believed that people indulged in betting during the ancient Olympics as well.
Roman Perspective
It’s not much different from the Greeks, in fact in ancient time it was sort of a national pastime with the rulers in the Roman Empire seeing it as a major social problem.
If you’ve seen the Oscar-winning movie “Gladiator”, you’ll get the perspective.
Gambling in the Americas
The Mayans and Aztecs of America also practiced gambling on quite a large scale, and was never seen as a vice.
Gambling was a tool to attract the mob and to gain profits for the high priests of the Society.
Current Scenario
Today Gambling is a multi-billion dollar industry, usually provided as a gambling/leisure & holiday package.
It’s also possible to play them online with several casino sites available for those who don’t want to leave their homes.
So What Makes a Great Casino?
There are several factors that are involved, such as:
Worlds Best Casinos
Forbes had recently listed the best Casinos around the world. Here are they:
St. James Club, Antigua
Atlantis resort, Bahamas
Bellagio, Las Vegas
The Borgata Hotel, Casino & spa, Atlantic city, N.J.
The Clermont Club, London
Casino de Monte Carlo, Monaco
Baden-Baden, Baden-Baden, Germany
Casino Metropol, Moscow
Sun City, South Africa
Mandarin Oriental, Macau
Here are some more great options:
