Indian Rummy

Indian Rummy

Indian rummy is a classic card game that has been popular across the country for generations. Also known as paplu, this game is usually played with 13 cards and involves forming sets and sequences. The objective is to arrange your cards in a correct combination and make a declaration before your opponents.

With the rise of online platforms, Indian rummy is now easily accessible on your phone. The gameplay remains the same as the traditional version, offering the same fun and excitement. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, you can learn the basics, practice, and enjoy playing online rummy games anytime.


Basic Rules of Indian Rummy

Sequences Sets Jokers
A sequence is a group of three or more consecutive cards of the same suit. There are two types of sequences: A set is a group of three or more cards of the same rank but different suits. Sets help complete your hand, but forming them is optional. Jokers are versatile cards that can replace any missing card in a set or sequence. There are two kinds of jokers:
Pure Sequence: No joker replaces any other card in a pure sequence. At least one pure sequence is mandatory to make a valid declaration.
Example: 4♠️-5♠️-6♠️
All cards have the same number or face value but belong to different suits.
Example: 6♠️-6♦️-6♣️
Printed Joker: It comes with every deck and can substitute any card.
Impure Sequence: A joker replaces one or more cards in an impure sequence.
Example: 7♦️-8♦️-Joker
Note: If there is more than one card of the same suit, the card group is not a valid set.
Examples of invalid sets:
10♣️-10♣️-10♦️ (Invalid because 10♣️ is repeated.)
Wild Joker: A randomly chosen card in the game.
All cards of that rank become jokers for that round.
Example: If 3♥️ is selected as a wild joker, then 3♠️, 3♦️, and 3♣️ also act as jokers.

Points System in Indian Rummy

In Indian rummy, the goal is to reduce your score to zero and make a valid declaration. Points in Indian rummy have a negative value. The fewer points you have, the better your chances of winning.

Here’s how points are assigned to the cards:

  • Cards numbered 2 to 10 are worth points equal to their face values. For example: 7♦️ = 7 points
  • Face cards (K, Q, J) and the ace (A) are worth 10 points each.
  • Jokers (both printed and wild) are worth 0 points.

When you successfully group your cards into valid sequences or sets, their combined value becomes zero.

Example: 6♣️-7♣️-8♣️ is a valid sequence, so those cards together are worth 0 points.

The aim? Arrange your cards correctly and declare with zero points to win!

Guide to Playing Indian Rummy Online

Indian rummy is usually played by 2 to 6 players. At the start of the game, each player is dealt 13 cards. The aim is to arrange these cards in sequences and sets and make a correct declaration before anyone else.

Here’s how the game works:

  1. Two card piles are used: a closed deck and an open deck.
  2. Players take turns picking a card from either deck and discarding one they don’t need. The goal is to form at least two sequences, one of which must be a pure sequence (without a joker).
  3. The rest of the cards can be grouped into other valid sequences or sets.

Jokers play an essential role. Each game includes: One printed joker, and several wild jokers (randomly selected cards that act as jokers for that game).

Common Terms Used in Indian Rummy

Like any card game, Indian rummy has its own set of terms that you should know. Here's a quick guide to some commonly used words in the game:

  • Set: A group of three or more cards with the same number or face value but different suits. Example: 7♠️-7♣️-7♦️
  • Sequence: Three or more sequential cards of the same suit arranged in order. Example: 5♥️-6♥️-7♥️
  • Pure Sequence: A sequence formed without using a joker replacing any card. Example: 3♣️-4♣️-5♣️
  • Impure Sequence: A sequence in which a joker replaces a card. Example: 8♦-9♦-WJ (wild joker)
  • Joker: A special card that can be used instead of any other card in a set or sequence.
  • Printed Joker: The printed joker card has a joker printed on it.
  • Wild Joker: A random card chosen at the start of the game to act as a joker. All other cards of that rank also become wild jokers for that game/deal.
  • Declaration: When a player arranges all cards in valid sequences and sets and ends the game by showing his/her cards.
  • Drop: Choosing to quit a round, either right at the start (first drop) or during the game (middle drop). A drop gets you penalty points.
  • Deal: The process of distributing cards at the start of each round. One round is also called a deal.
  • Open Deck: The pile in which discarded cards are placed and are visible to all.
  • Closed Deck: The pile of face-down cards.
  • Draw: Picking a card from either the open deck or closed deck.
  • Discard: Placing a card onto the open deck on your turn.
  • Points: The value of the cards in your hand. The aim is to reduce your points to zero with a valid declaration.

Tips and Tricks to Win at Indian Rummy

Winning at Indian rummy involves smart strategies and careful observation. Here are some helpful tips to improve your game:

  • Practice: Play free tournaments to get comfortable with the rules and sharpen your skills before trying cash tournaments.
  • Stay Focused: Pay attention to the cards being picked and discarded. Every move counts.
  • Create a Pure Sequence Early On: A pure sequence is mandatory for a valid declaration, so try to make one as soon as possible.
  • Use Jokers Wisely: Jokers are valuable. Save them for completing sets or impure sequences when needed.
  • Watch Your Opponents: Try to guess what sequences/sets your opponents are building and avoid discarding cards they might need.
  • Stay Unpredictable: Avoid obvious patterns and keep your game flexible so others can't guess your hand.
  • Plan Ahead: Always have a backup strategy in case your original plan doesn't work out.

How to Download the Indian Rummy App from RummyMillionaire

Getting started with Indian rummy on RummyMillionaire is easy. Just follow these steps to download the app and start playing:


For Android Users


  • Visit the official RummyMillionaire.com website.
  • Click on the “Download APK” button to get the app.
  • Once it’s downloaded, open the file and allow installation.
  • Install the app and start enjoying rummy tournaments.

For iOS Users


  • Go to App Store.
  • Search for “RummyMillionaire” in the search bar.
  • Tap on “Get” to install the app.
  • Once it’s installed, open the app and begin your thrilling rummy journey.

Whether you're looking to play just for fun or want to compete for massive cash prizes, the RummyMillionaire app has everything you need to get started. So download the app now and start playing!

Indian Rummy FAQs

How many cards is a player dealt in an Indian rummy game?

Each player is dealt 13 cards in Indian rummy. That is why the game is also called 13-card rummy.

Is it safe and legal to play Indian rummy online for money?

It is completely safe for anyone to play Indian rummy online for money on a certified platform like Rummy Millionaire. The Supreme Court of India has declared rummy a game of skill and playing rummy for money is a legal business activity, not gambling or betting. According to the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s verdict, playing rummy for real money is completely legal.

However, the state gaming laws of Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Sikkim, Nagaland and Telangana prohibit playing online rummy for money in the respective states. Therefore, players living in or logged in from the aforementioned states must not play real cash rummy games or tournaments on Rummy Millionaire.

How many jokers are used in Indian rummy?

One printed joker per deck and 4 wild jokers per deck are used in Indian rummy.

How to declare in an Indian rummy game?

To declare in an Indian rummy game, you must have at least two sequences, out of which at least one must be a pure rummy sequence, and all other cards in your hand must be arranged in sequences or sets. Once you have arranged your cards in valid combinations, you can make a declaration by discarding the 14th card to the “Finish Slot.”

How many different versions does Indian rummy have?

There are three main versions of Indian rummy: points rummy, deals rummy, and pool rummy. Each variant has its unique rules and gameplay and offers great entertainment.

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