The notorious Mahadev betting app, previously shut down after a massive Enforcement Directorate (ED) crackdown, has resurfaced under a rebranded name: “Mahaadev.” This time, the platform isn’t just targeting IPL 2026 bettors.
It’s also taking wagers on the upcoming state assembly elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Kerala. The return comes despite Parliament passing the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act in August 2025, which bans all online money games across India.
How Is the Mahadev App Operating Again?
The operators haven’t changed their playbook much. They’ve simply rebranded.
According to reports, the platform now uses altered names, rebranded websites, and proxy links to dodge detection. Registration follows the same old method: users connect via WhatsApp, make a ₹300 UPI payment, and receive a user ID, temporary password, and instructional videos on how to deposit and withdraw funds.
Once inside, the betting options are extensive. During IPL matches, users can place bets on session runs, fall of wickets, ball-by-ball outcomes, and “fancy” or “combo” bets combining multiple conditions for higher returns. Football, tennis, basketball, horse racing, and even cockfighting are also listed.
For the state elections, the platform reportedly offers betting markets on which party will win, how many seats each party secures, and margin of victory in individual constituencies.
What’s The Background Of The Mahadev Betting Scam?
The original Mahadev app was one of India’s largest illegal betting operations. Created in 2018, it was run by Dubai-based Saurabh Chandrakar and Ravi Uppal, both originally from Chhattisgarh.
The ED estimated the platform’s money laundering network at approximately ₹6,000 crore. The investigation even drew in political figures, including allegations that former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel received ₹508 crore in kickbacks from the app’s promoters.
In March 2026, the ED attached ₹1,700 crore worth of assets in the case, including villas in Burj Khalifa. Actor Sahil Khan was also arrested for alleged involvement. Ravi Uppal was apprehended by Dubai police following an Interpol Red Corner Notice.
Despite all this, the operators have simply changed the spelling and kept running.
Why Is the Timing Dangerous?
Two factors make this resurgence especially concerning.
First, IPL 2026 is in full swing, generating massive public interest. Every match creates fresh betting opportunities that these platforms exploit within minutes. Hyderabad Police have already blocked over 600 betting links in the past month alone, but new ones keep appearing.
Second, assembly elections across four states are happening simultaneously. Betting on election outcomes is illegal in India, yet the rebranded Mahaadev platform is openly offering these markets. The combination of cricket season and election fever creates a perfect storm for illegal operators.
How Can People Protect Themselves?
The advice from law enforcement remains consistent. No app, no Telegram channel, and no WhatsApp group can guarantee IPL or election predictions. If someone asks for money through UPI in exchange for “insider tips,” it’s a scam.
Anyone encountering such platforms should dial 1930 or file a complaint on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in). Hyderabad Police also accept reports via WhatsApp at 9490616555.
The Mahadev operators clearly believe that changing one vowel in their name is enough to stay ahead of the law. Whether India’s enforcement agencies can prove them wrong this time remains the open question.
