Explore the rise of Indian esports in 2025—from top players and BGMI teams to new leagues and game titles shaping India’s competitive gaming scene.
India’s esports revolution isn’t just coming—it’s already here, and it’s growing faster than ever. In 2025, the country is witnessing an explosive transformation in competitive gaming, fueled by a mobile-first audience, rising investments, and a new generation of professional players and teams. What was once a niche hobby has evolved into a thriving multi-billion-dollar industry, turning passionate gamers into celebrities and national pride into global recognition.
From iconic titles like Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) and Free Fire Max to tactical shooters like VALORANT and strategy-focused MOBAs, the esports scene in India spans a wide range of genres and platforms. Add to that the booming Discord communities, massive YouTube and livestream audiences, and professionally structured franchise leagues, and it’s clear that India has become one of the most dynamic regions in global esports.
In this hub article, we’ve brought together everything you need to know about India’s competitive gaming landscape in 2025. Discover the top esports players—male and female—who are leading the charge, the best Indian teams dominating the leaderboard, and the most played games capturing millions of hours of competitive action. Dive into BGMI rankings, learn about KRAFTON’s bold new franchise league, explore how Free Fire Max is making its comeback, and understand the global ambitions behind India’s inclusion in the Esports World Cup.
Whether you’re a casual fan or a hardcore esports enthusiast, this guide is your one-stop destination for understanding the people, platforms, and power moves shaping the future of Indian esports. Welcome to the India Esports Hub.
Top 10 Best Esports Players in India (Male & Female)
Rising Stars Who Are Leading the Charge
In 2025, India’s esports scene is thriving with star players who’ve transformed competitive gaming into a full-blown career. From the strategic battlegrounds of BGMI and Free Fire to the high-stakes precision of Valorant and CS2, these top-tier athletes are pushing the boundaries of skill, strategy, and showmanship.
On the male front, Jonathan (JONATHAN) continues to dominate the BGMI landscape, emerging as India’s highest-earning player with over $83,000 in winnings. Legends like Mortal and V3nom remain iconic figures for their leadership and influence, while players like Rite2Ace, Snax, and HydraFlick add depth to India’s growing talent pool across various FPS and battle royale titles.
Female gamers are also stepping into the spotlight. Players like Meow16k, Casper, and Sway are rewriting the narrative, proving that skill and determination know no gender. Despite earning less than their male counterparts, their presence is reshaping the competitive landscape, driving conversations around inclusivity and equality.
With rising sponsorships, live-streaming income, and global tournaments, the Indian esports ecosystem is finally rewarding talent across the board. These players aren’t just playing—they’re building legacies.
Read full article → Top 10 Best Esports Players in India (Male & Female)
| Player Name | Alias | Game(s) | Earnings (USD) | Notable Team / Role |
| Jonathan Amaral | JONATHAN | BGMI | $83,447.94 | GodLike Esports |
| Naman Mathur | Mortal | BGMI | N/A | Team Soul (Founder & IGL) |
| Ankit Panth | V3nom | CS2, Valorant | N/A | Team Brutality, Motivational Lead |
| Tejas Sawant | Rite2Ace | Valorant | N/A | Global Esports |
| Saloni Pawar | Meow16k | Valorant | $950.00 | Global Esports Phoenix |
| Casper | Casper | Valorant | $2,980.00 | Various |
| Sway | Sway | Valorant | $1,280.00 | Various |
| Akanksha Sukhramani | Muffinloop | Valorant | $1,010.00 | Competitive Valorant Scene |
| Syeeda Tabassum | Rose | Valorant | $650.00 | Valorant Tournaments |
| Ketan Patel | K18 | Free Fire | N/A | Analyst & Creator |
| Raj Varma | Snax Gaming | BGMI | N/A | YouTuber & Pro Player |
| Rohan Ledwani | HydraFlick | CS2, Variety | N/A | Red Bull Competitor, Creator |
| Aditya Mathe | Ademt1 | PUBG Mobile | N/A | Revenant Esports |
The Future of Esports in India: Why Esports is India’s Fastest Growing Industry
From Niche to Mainstream—And Beyond
Esports in India has transformed from a niche hobby to a multi-billion-dollar industry that’s reshaping the country’s entertainment landscape. What was once a pastime for a select few has now become a thriving movement, engaging millions of young Indians who see gaming not just as a hobby but as a career, business opportunity, and cultural phenomenon.
One of the biggest drivers behind this rapid growth is the widespread availability of affordable internet and smartphones. With inexpensive data plans and budget-friendly mobile devices, gaming has become accessible to players even in smaller towns and rural areas. India has emerged as one of the largest mobile gaming markets globally, with popular titles like PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, and Call of Duty: Mobile leading the way. This accessibility has democratized esports participation, allowing diverse talent to shine on national and international stages.
The youth demographic plays a critical role in fueling esports’ rise. Over 65% of India’s internet users fall between the ages of 12 and 34, representing a tech-savvy generation eager to consume and compete in digital entertainment. The surge in competitive gaming has led to a boom in tournaments, professional leagues, and regional competitions with growing prize pools and increased stakes. Organizations such as ESL India, DreamHack, Team Vitality, and Fnatic have cemented their presence in India, bringing investment and professional infrastructure to the scene.
Streaming and content creation have further propelled esports, turning gaming into a spectator sport. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Facebook Gaming have made stars out of streamers like Mortal and Dynamo, inspiring millions of viewers and gamers alike.
Additionally, the government’s official recognition of esports as a sport, alongside increased sponsorships from major brands like Red Bull, Samsung, and Pepsi, has created an encouraging environment for growth. Emerging technologies such as Web3 and the metaverse promise to revolutionize how players and fans engage with esports in India.
Despite challenges like infrastructure gaps, regulatory uncertainties, and societal stigma, the opportunities in esports—ranging from playing and coaching to content creation and game development—are vast. Educational institutes are also stepping in with specialized courses to nurture the next generation of esports professionals.
Looking ahead, The Future of Esports in India is incredibly promising, with expanding leagues, innovative technology, and increasing global recognition positioning India as a rising powerhouse in the global esports arena.
Most Popular Esports Games in India in 2025
What India Is Playing Right Now
India’s esports scene in 2025 is a vibrant mix of mobile and PC games that have captured the hearts of millions. Thanks to affordable smartphones, accessible internet, and growing tournament support, several titles dominate the competitive landscape, offering something for every gamer.
Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) leads the pack, thriving with its mobile-friendly battle royale gameplay and blockbuster tournaments like the BGMI Masters Series. The game’s strategic team play and continuous updates keep its vast community engaged nationwide.
Tactical shooters like Valorant have also surged in popularity, with fast-paced 5v5 matches and unique agents driving competitive growth. Events such as the Valorant Champions Tour India highlight rising talent and draw large fanbases.
Free Fire, known for quick matches and compatibility with low-end devices, boasts one of the largest player bases and highly viewed tournaments like the Free Fire India Championship. Meanwhile, Call of Duty: Mobile offers console-like experience on mobile, with realistic combat and iconic maps energizing its esports scene.
Though Apex Legends Mobile was discontinued in 2023, it left a lasting impression on the community with its unique heroes and dynamic gameplay.
Other popular titles include strategic and accessible games like Clash Royale, football sim FIFAe World Cup, mobile MOBA League of Legends: Wild Rift, and Pokémon Unite, which blends beloved characters with MOBA mechanics. On PC, Dota 2 continues to inspire competitive play with its complex tactics and massive international tournaments.
Read full article → Most Popular Esports Games in India in 2025
| Game | Genre | Key Features | Popular Tournaments |
| Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) | Battle Royale | Mobile-friendly, team strategy, constant updates | BGMI Masters Series |
| Valorant | Tactical Shooter | 5v5 matches, unique agents, strategic gameplay | Valorant Champions Tour India |
| Free Fire | Battle Royale | Quick matches, low-end device support | Free Fire India Championship |
| Call of Duty: Mobile | Shooter | Console-like experience, iconic maps | CoD Mobile World Championship |
| Apex Legends Mobile* | Battle Royale | Legend abilities, fast combat | Discontinued (2023) |
| Clash Royale | Card Battle/Strategy | Deck building, fast-paced 1v1 & 2v2 battles | BLAST Royale |
| FIFAe World Cup | Sports Simulation | Realistic football gameplay | FIFAe World Cup |
| League of Legends: Wild Rift | MOBA | Streamlined controls, shorter matches | Various local and global leagues |
| Pokémon Unite | MOBA | Team strategy, unique Pokémon abilities | Pokémon Unite India Challenge |
| Dota 2 | MOBA (PC) | Deep mechanics, high skill ceiling | The International and local tournaments |
*Note: Apex Legends Mobile was discontinued in 2023 but remains influential.
Top 10 Best Esports Teams in India
India’s Most Elite Competitive Squads
Esports in India has evolved rapidly, transforming from a niche hobby into a major cultural and competitive force. Indian esports teams are now making their mark on the global stage, showcasing talent and passion that have energized the entire gaming community. Let’s explore the Best Esports Teams in India—the trailblazers driving this exciting revolution.
Here are the top 10 esports teams leading India’s charge:
- Global Esports
One of South Asia’s biggest teams, excelling in Valorant and Overwatch. Known for strategic gameplay and international success, with star players like kellyS and Kr1stal. Partners include AMD and HyperX. - Team SouL
Founded by Mortal, a giant in mobile esports, especially BGMI. Multiple national titles and a loyal fanbase. Sponsored by Red Bull and Corsair. - TSM Entity
A former collaboration between TSM and Entity Gaming, focusing on BGMI with top players like Jonathan and Ghatak. Known for strong performances in PUBG Mobile World League. Sponsored by OnePlus. - Velocity Gaming
A Valorant powerhouse led by Anuj “Amaterasu” Sharma. Known for disciplined tactics and consistent victories in the VCC and regional events. Backed by AMD Ryzen and Rooter. - GodLike Esports
Focused on Call of Duty: Mobile and BGMI. High-profile players like SIMP and ZGOD lead the team. Partners include Xbox. - Orange Rock Esports
Gained fame as runners-up in the PUBG Mobile World League 2020. Known for strategic gameplay and strong performances at PMPL. Supported by HTC and NordVPN. - Revenant Esports
Noted for aggressive playstyle across games like Valorant and Brawl Stars. Recent winners of Upthrust Esports – The Multiverse Series 2024. Sponsored by Samsung. - Enigma Gaming
Rising stars in CS2 and Valorant, known for aggressive gameplay and strong tournament showings like TEC Challenger Series 8. Partners include ZGAMER. - Marcos Gaming
Competitive in PUBG Mobile and CoD Mobile with players like Aladin. Growing presence fueled by partnerships with Loco. - Initiative Esports
Focused on grassroots development and community engagement, nurturing emerging talent in BGMI. Supported by Realme.
The future of Indian esports teams looks promising, with growing investments, improved infrastructure, and international collaborations closing the gap with global competitors. Following these top teams offers a glimpse into the dynamic and competitive spirit fueling India’s esports rise. Who’s your favorite among the best esports teams in India? Join the movement and witness this thrilling journey!
Top Esports Teams in India: BGMI 2025 Rankings
Who’s Dominating the Battleground?
With BGMI continuing to be India’s biggest esports title, team rankings have become more competitive than ever. Who’s rising, who’s slipping, and who’s absolutely dominating the scene?
This deep dive breaks down the most successful BGMI teams in 2025, their star players, recent wins, and what sets them apart in one of the most stacked gaming landscapes in the country.
KRAFTON Opens Bidding for New BGMI Franchise League
India’s First Mobile Esports Franchise League Is Coming
The Indian esports landscape is on the cusp of a massive transformation as KRAFTON, the South Korean publisher behind Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), has officially opened bidding for its highly anticipated BGMI franchise league. Titled a “pioneering esports initiative,” this move aims to establish a long-term, structured ecosystem that mirrors the success of international franchise-based leagues. The initiative is set to create lasting opportunities for investors, brands, and esports stakeholders in the country’s booming mobile gaming market.
According to KRAFTON, the bid invites a wide range of potential partners—from corporations and celebrities to sports legends and gaming enthusiasts—highlighting the widespread appeal and commercial potential of mobile esports in India. Applicants have until July 4, 2025, to express their interest, after which formal proceedings will begin, including the issuance of Letters of Intent (LOIs) to selected participants.
This announcement follows years of growth for BGMI, which was launched in 2021 as a localized version of PUBG Mobile. Despite regulatory hurdles, including a temporary ban, BGMI has bounced back strongly, regularly drawing hundreds of thousands of viewers during tournaments like the BGMI Series 2024. With over 485,000 peak viewers and a massive ₹32 million prize pool, the title’s competitive scene is stronger than ever.
KRAFTON’s push for franchising is expected to professionalize the BGMI scene, offering new commercial models and brand engagement opportunities. For esports fans and businesses alike, this could be a defining moment for India’s competitive gaming journey.
This move underscores KRAFTON’s commitment to elevating Indian esports and building a vibrant, commercially viable ecosystem for years to come.
India Discord Gaming: Your Online Squad Awaits
The Digital Playground Where Indian Gamers Unite
India’s gaming scene is rapidly evolving, and Discord has emerged as the digital heartbeat of this transformation. Across every level—from casual BGMI squads to pro Valorant teams—players are using Discord not just to chat, but to compete, connect, and grow. Joining any Indian Discord server feels like stepping into a digital adda where someone’s always ready to guide, squad up, or help you improve.
Esports organizations across India have woven Discord into the fabric of their strategy. Teams like Global Esports, GodLike, and Orangutan have turned their servers into thriving ecosystems:
- Open tryouts, fan hangouts, and scrim rooms are all hosted on Discord.
- Server leaderboards help teams discover fresh solo queue talent.
- During major tournaments, team servers buzz with live match chats and previews.
Gamers benefit directly from this setup. For anyone grinding in Valorant or BGMI, Discord’s LFG (Looking For Group) channels, mentor meetups, and team recruitment threads offer quick and meaningful matchmaking. Active communities also reward participation:
- Entry into free tournaments, with real cash or in-game prize pools.
- Coaching sessions with top-ranked players.
- Access to Q&As, giveaways, and early updates from organizers.
Getting started in Indian gaming servers is beginner-friendly:
- Create a Discord account and find legit invite links via forums or friends.
- Verify yourself and read server rules posted in welcome channels.
- Introduce yourself with your game rank, favorite title, or city.
Admins building Indian servers also play a big role in community growth:
- Organize by region or game: Mumbai-Valorant, Hyderabad-BGMI, etc.
- Use bots like MEE6 or Indian-made ones for moderation and giveaways.
- Celebrate festivals like Diwali or Republic Day with themed events and contests.
As the future of India Discord Gaming unfolds, one thing is clear: whether you’re a student or a rising esports star, Discord is where the journey begins. All it takes is one “hello” to find your tribe—and possibly your next big break.
Free Fire Max Esports Returns to India After Three-Year Ban
One of India’s Most Beloved Games Makes Its Comeback
After a three-year hiatus following the government ban, Free Fire Max is making its official return to Indian esports with a ₹1 crore prize pool in the TEZ India Cup.
Garena is reviving the franchise through Free Fire Max, promising a new competitive roadmap and renewed hope for one of India’s biggest gaming communities.
Esports World Cup Foundation Strengthens Footprint in India
India Gets a Bigger Seat on the Global Esports Stage
India’s presence on the global esports stage is growing fast—and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) is taking notice. With India’s massive base of mobile-first gamers and competitive momentum across titles like BGMI, the EWCF is expanding its reach into the region in a big way.
A new regional partnership with a yet-unnamed streaming service is one part of the strategy, while the other is more direct: a Battlegrounds Mobile India team will receive a special invite to compete at the upcoming Esports World Cup. This move reinforces India’s increasing relevance to the EWCF’s global vision.
Mike McCabe, COO of the EWCF, said it best: “India is central to that vision.” The inclusion of S8UL Esports in the EWCF’s expanded partner program shows the Foundation’s commitment to Indian talent, and the BMPS (Battlegrounds Mobile India Pro Series) now serves as a gateway to international competition.
This expansion is part of a broader strategy to build bridges between regional scenes and the global esports ecosystem. With prior partnerships including Tencent and Riot Games, the EWCF has already integrated major titles like League of Legends, VALORANT, and Teamfight Tactics into its global tournament structure.
While the initiative is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and has sparked criticism over potential “esportswashing,” the on-ground efforts in India—such as local invites, partnerships, and grassroots opportunities—signal a more inclusive and far-reaching effort to engage rising regions in competitive gaming.
For a closer look at the EWCF’s India plans and its implications for BGMI and the broader mobile esports scene, read the full article here.
As we move closer to Esports World Cup 2025, expect India to play a leading role in shaping the tournament’s competitive narrative and global reach.
GodLike Esports Claims Third at CODM China Masters 2025 Despite Captain’s Absence
India’s GodLike Esports made headlines with a stunning third-place finish at the Call of Duty Mobile (CODM) China Masters 2025 Season 9, despite facing one of their biggest challenges to date—the absence of their captain, Jash “Learn” Shah, due to visa issues. Held in Shanghai from March 20 to May 24, the tournament featured elite teams from China, Japan, and India, with a massive $261,290 prize pool up for grabs. GodLike’s campaign began with early struggles, but the team quickly adjusted their strategy and surged into the offline playoffs. Their dominant 4-1 win against Stand Point Gaming earned them a spot in the Upper Bracket Finals, making history for an Indian team competing on Chinese soil.
Their journey, however, met resistance when they faced the reigning champions, Wolves, and suffered a 4-0 sweep. Dropping to the Lower Bracket Finals, GodLike had to face Qing Jiu Club again—an opponent that had previously edged them out in a close 3-2 series. Despite fighting hard, they fell short with a 4-1 loss, securing a commendable third place and ¥225,000 (approx. $31,000) in prize money. Captain Learn, though absent, lauded his teammates for their mental strength and commitment.
GodLike’s result not only marks one of India’s strongest performances on the global CODM stage, but it also showcases the nation’s growing presence in international esports. Another Indian team, S8UL, also participated and finished 10th, further reinforcing the country’s potential. With growing experience and recognition, Indian CODM teams are setting new standards and inspiring a wave of competitive spirit among the next generation of players.
Team Aryan Faces Backlash Ahead of PUBG Mobile World Cup Over Controversial Player Name
Indian PUBG Mobile team Aryan x TMG Gaming has come under intense scrutiny ahead of the PUBG Mobile World Cup 2025 due to a player using the controversial alias “Hitler.” This controversy has overshadowed the team’s recent success in the Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2025, where they won approximately $145,000 and earned the right to represent India at the prestigious Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The team’s name “Aryan” and the player’s alias “Hitler” have sparked widespread concern within the global esports community. While “Aryan” has historical roots in Sanskrit meaning “noble” and holds positive cultural significance in countries like India and Iran, its association with Nazi Germany during World War II complicates its use on the international stage. The player’s use of “Hitler” as a gaming name, however, has no cultural justification and has been widely condemned as offensive and inappropriate.
Tournament organizers have responded by enforcing strict naming rules to maintain professionalism and avoid promoting hate speech. The player will compete under the alias “Henry,” a name he has used in previous competitions. This action reflects the growing need for accountability in esports branding and player conduct.
The incident has ignited discussions across social media platforms, with fans and analysts debating cultural context versus global sensitivity. Although some defend the team’s lack of malicious intent, the controversy has become a distraction from their competitive achievements.
The PUBG Mobile World Cup 2025, scheduled from July 25 to August 3, will feature top teams such as Team Secret, DRX, and Weibo Gaming, alongside India’s sole representative, Aryan x TMG. With over $3 million in prize money, the tournament will be fiercely competitive.
This episode underscores the increasing responsibility on esports teams and players to consider cultural sensitivities, as esports continues its rise as a global entertainment phenomenon.
How It All Comes Together
India’s Esports Ecosystem Is Finally Hitting Its Stride
From top-tier talent and globally competitive teams to returning titles and franchise-level tournaments, India’s esports industry is no longer playing catch-up—it’s setting trends.
What makes 2025 special is the ecosystem taking shape around these developments. Institutions are investing. International bodies are recognizing. Players are becoming celebrities. And fans? They’re more engaged than ever.
This is no longer just gaming. It’s a movement.
Final Thoughts
India’s esports revolution isn’t on the horizon—it’s already here. Whether you’re watching S8UL dominate a global tourney, cheering for a new franchise in the BGMI league, or grinding ranks on Discord with your friends, you’re part of something massive.
Bookmark this hub. We’ll keep it updated with the latest from India’s ever-evolving competitive gaming scene.
Quick Access to All Articles
Here’s a full list of the articles in this hub:
- Top 10 Best Esports Players in India (Male & Female)
- The Future of Esports in India
- Most Popular Esports Games in India in 2025
- Top 10 Best Esports Teams in India
- Top Esports Teams in India: BGMI 2025 Rankings
- KRAFTON Opens Bidding for New BGMI Franchise League
- India Discord Gaming: Your Online Squad Awaits
- Free Fire Max Esports Returns to India
- Esports World Cup Foundation Strengthens Footprint in India
- GodLike Esports Claims Third at CODM China Masters 2025 Despite Captain’s Absence
- Team Aryan Faces Backlash Ahead of PUBG Mobile World Cup Over Controversial Player Name
FAQs
FAQ: What is the legal status of esports in India?
Esports in India is legally recognized as a separate category from traditional gambling or fantasy gaming. In December 2022, the Indian government officially declared esports as part of the “multi-sports” category under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. This recognition distinguishes esports from casual or chance-based gaming and positions it alongside other competitive sporting activities. However, regulation remains fragmented at the state level, and there is still no centralized esports authority, making self-governance and industry-led associations crucial for maintaining standards and fair play.
FAQ: Can schools or universities in India offer esports programs or scholarships?
Yes, but it’s still in early stages. A few Indian educational institutions have started offering esports-related extracurricular activities, and some private colleges are even piloting competitive gaming scholarships to attract talent. While widespread adoption is still pending, the conversation around “esports education” is growing. Courses in game design, broadcasting, and esports management are also gaining traction, and future government initiatives could integrate esports into youth and tech programs. Schools with active gaming clubs are beginning to treat esports much like traditional athletics.
FAQ: How can Indian gamers pursue a professional esports career without joining a team?
You don’t have to be on a pro team to start your esports career. Many Indian players launch their journey through ranked matchmaking ladders, open qualifiers, or solo grind tournaments available on platforms like Gamerji, Skyesports, and Rooter. Building a strong individual brand on YouTube, Loco, or Twitch can also attract sponsorships or team invitations. Regular participation in local scrims, community leagues, and Discord server ladders helps you build credibility. Being active in the ecosystem—streaming, networking, and engaging with fans—is often just as important as raw gameplay skill.
