Porotta-beef, IPL bets are on. Habibi, come to Kerala

While most Indian Premier League (IPL) fans are glued to their screens, busy debating their team's chances and key players' performances, in parts of Kerala, it's the season for a different kind of betting. A local tradition where the stakes are often porotta, beef, and beer.

Yes, you read that right! This might not come as a surprise to Malayalis who've played cricket or football matches for a lime juice and a puff. For the rest, here's a quirky report from Malayala Manorama.

In the eastern belts of the state, from Muvattupuzha to Perumbavoor, the IPL isn't just a sport. It's a reason to gather, argue, and bet on your favourite team. But in villages and small-town corners, not everyone gambles with cash. Instead, it's: "If your team wins, I'll get you beef and porotta," or "Loser buys the beer."

Fantasy leagues? Too tame. Here, it's full-flavour fanfare.

But that's just the home-cooked version. The Manorama report also reveals a spicier subplot: underground betting hubs operating late into the night. Many of these were once known for illegal card games like veeshu, but during IPL season, they transform into full-blown cricket casinos. Wagers range from ₹100 to ₹10,000 - and sometimes beyond.

And these aren't simple win-or-lose bets either. People are staking money on everything from who wins the toss to the next boundary, wicket, or dot ball. Even the semifinal and final line-ups have their own odds.

So while the cricketing world focuses on the action in stadiums, some Kerala villages are hosting their own off-field league where every delivery could mean a dinner, a drink, or a dent in someone's wallet.

Cricket in Kerala? It's spicy, it's layered, and it's often served hot with porotta and beef on the side.

PS: India's biggest cricket carnival - IPL - will remain in full swing until May 25, 2025. So will this flavourful food betting.

Read the original copy from Malayala Manorama here