Tambola, also called Housie, is India’s version of 90-ball bingo. It’s played at family events and kitty parties, and in bingo apps such as Ind Bingo.
The ticket
- 3 rows and 9 columns, with 15 numbers in total (5 per row).
- Column 1 holds 1–9, column 2 holds 10–19, and so on up to 80–90.
How to play
- Each player gets one or more tickets.
- The caller (or the app) draws numbers 1–90 at random, often with a nickname such as “Kelly’s eye, number 1”.
- Players cross off called numbers.
- When you complete a prize pattern, claim it before the next number is called.
- The caller checks the ticket. A wrong claim (“bogey”) can cancel the ticket in some games.
Tambola prizes (dividends)
| Prize | What you need |
|---|---|
| Early Five / Jaldi 5 | First 5 numbers marked anywhere |
| Top line | All 5 numbers in row 1 |
| Middle line | All 5 numbers in row 2 |
| Bottom line | All 5 numbers in row 3 |
| Four corners | First and last numbers of the top and bottom rows |
| Full House | All 15 numbers; the biggest prize |
Some games add Pyramid, Star, Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner and second Full House. See patterns and prizes.
More bingo guides
18+ only for real-money play; it involves financial risk and may be restricted in your state.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tambola the same as Housie?
Yes. Tambola and Housie are two names for the same 90-ball game.
What is Jaldi 5 in Tambola?
Jaldi 5, or Early Five, is the prize for the first player to mark any five numbers on their ticket.
How many numbers are on a Tambola ticket?
15 numbers, 5 in each of 3 rows, from a range of 1 to 90.
What is a bogey in Housie?
A false claim. In many games a bogey cancels that ticket for the rest of the game.
Can I play Tambola online for money?
Some bingo apps offer paid Tambola rooms. Check that real-money gaming is allowed in your state.