Govt of Tamil Nadu announces Chennai Esports Global Championship (CEGC) featuring CS2 and BGMI

Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu’s flagship esports initiative, the Chennai Esports Global Championship (CEGC), has announced two major tournaments featuring Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) and Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) in collaboration with Skyesports. Both will take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium this November, marking one of the most ambitious esports celebrations ever hosted in India.

The CEGC – Counter-Strike 2 will be held from November 7 to G, bringing together top teams from India, Southeast Asia, and Europe to compete for a USD 50,000 prize pool. This prestigious tournament will be part of the Valve Regional Standings, making it one of the key events to watch and positioning Chennai as a rising destination for global esports. Registrations are open across all three regions, with the top two teams from each qualifier advancing to the Chennai Playoffs.

The CEGC – BGMI tournament will follow from November 14 to 16, featuring India’s leading mobile esports teams competing for national glory and share of the INR 50,00,000 prize pool. Details about the tournament format, prize pool, and invited teams will be revealed soon.

The Opening Ceremony on November 7 will bring together global stakeholders, government representatives, and esports leaders to inaugurate the championship. This moment will mark the beginning of a new chapter in India’s esports journey, establishing Chennai as a hub that connects local talent with global opportunity.

CEGC isn’t a one-time tournament; it’s the foundation for India’s long-term global esports expansion. It blends community, culture, and competition to build sustainability rather than short-lived spectacle. An official initiative by the Government of Tamil Nadu, envisioned by the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, it represents a historic milestone as the first Indian state government-backed international esports championship.

Dr Atulya Misra IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Youth Welfare and Sports Development Department, said “Tamil Nadu is proud to pioneer the convergence of technology and sport. Having successfully incorporated esports into the Chief Minister’s Trophy, we are now ready to showcase our state’s prowess on the world stage. This landmark initiative is aligned with the vision of the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Thiru. Udhayanidhi Stalin, to promote emerging and futuristic sports disciplines and empower the state’s massive youth demographic.”

J. Meghanatha Reddy IAS, Member Secretary of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), added, “Tamil Nadu is proud to champion this new era of esports in India. The Chennai Esports Global Championship reffects our vision to make the state a global esports destination while creating opportunities for young players, creators, and professionals. Beyond competition, it will strengthen industries like broadcasting, production, and content creation, generating jobs and fostering growth for our creative economy.”

Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO of Skyesports, said, “The Chennai Esports Global Championship is more than an event. It is India’s declaration that we are ready to build, host, and sustain a global esports ecosystem rooted in local talent and creativity. With the support of SDAT, we aim to make Chennai a bridge between Indian esports and the global scene, much like how Saudi Arabia’s Esports World Cup became a worldwide hub for the industry.”

By combining competition, culture, and tourism, the CEGC will deliver a festival-like experience that celebrates both gaming and Tamil Nadu’s heritage, while positioning India within the global esports landscape.

According to IMARC Group, the global esports market was valued at USD 2.08 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 10.06 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 17.05 percent. The Asia-Pacific region currently leads the industry, accounting for over 30 percent of global market share. Within this, India continues to rise as one of the fastest-growing gaming markets, with over 453 million gamers in 2023, expected to surpass 730 million by 2028.

India’s Excel Champion Aditya Darak to Represent Nation at MEWC 2025 in Las Vegas

Skyesports, in collaboration with the Financial Modeling World Cup (FMWC) and supported by the Indian Digital Gaming Society (IDGS), has concluded the Microsoft Excel World Championship (MEWC) India Qualifier 2025. The tournament, powered by GIGABYTE, drew over 500 registrations nationwide, spotlighting India’s rising talent in data-driven problem solving and analytical excellence.

After multiple rounds of intense online qualifiers featuring complex, time-bound case-solving tasks in Microsoft Excel, Aditya Kumar Darak emerged as the national champion. He now secures a fully funded trip to Las Vegas, USA, where he will proudly represent India at the MEWC 2025 World Finals later this year, competing for international glory and a share of the $61,500 prize pool.

The six finalists who advanced to the decisive stage were:

1. Prithviraj Mavani
2. Mohammed Danish
3. Sourabh
4. Anup Agarwal
5. Aditya Kumar Darak
6. Vighnesh

Each finalist demonstrated exceptional skill in solving advanced problem scenarios, blending logic, speed, and creativity under pressure. Ultimately, Aditya’s precision and consistency saw him prevail against strong competition.

Commenting on his victory, Aditya Kumar Darak said, “Competing in the India Qualifier was an incredible experience. The challenges pushed us to think critically and act quickly, and I’m honoured to now represent India at the World Finals in Las Vegas.”

Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO, Skyesports, said, “The Microsoft Excel World Championship India Qualifier is a unique esports tournament that challenges the traditional definition of competition. By putting problem-solving and analytical thinking in the spotlight, it bridges gaming and professional upskilling. We’re proud of Aditya’s achievement and look forward to supporting him as he represents India on the global stage.”

As the Powered By partner, GIGABYTE supported the esports initiative, enabling the qualifier and showcasing its commitment to a wide range of gaming and esports activities in India.

The MEWC India Qualifier underscores India’s growing reputation in global digital competitions, while aligning with national objectives around digital skill development and talent acceleration.

Esports Athlete Health Programs: Physical Conditioning for Professional Gamers

You wouldn't think sitting at a computer for 12 hours a day would require athletic 44 conditioning — but you'd be wrong. The esports industry has learned this lesson the hard way. Players who seemed invincible at 18 were burning out by 22, their careers cut short by injuries that traditional sports medicine barely understood. And betting platforms like 1xbet? They've started paying attention to these health metrics because they directly impact player performance and market predictions.

I've watched this transformation happen in real-time. What started as a few stretching exercises between matches has evolved into comprehensive health programs that rival those of traditional sports teams. The numbers don't lie — teams with structured health programs consistently outperform those without them.

The physical toll of professional gaming is more severe than most people realize. We're talking about repetitive strain injuries that can end careers, postural problems that cause chronic pain, and eye strain that affects reaction times. But here's what's interesting: the teams that addressed these issues first gained a competitive advantage that's still paying dividends today.

Systematic Health Monitoring and Injury Prevention

Modern esports organizations don't wait for problems to develop — they prevent them. Esports health monitoring systems show how teams track everything from wrist flexibility to cardiovascular health.

The most effective programs I've seen address multiple areas simultaneously:

• Biomechanical assessments that identify potential injury risks before they become problems
• Targeted strength training programs that counteract the effects of prolonged sitting
• Eye care protocols that go beyond basic vision correction to include reaction time optimization
• Nutritional planning that supports sustained cognitive performance during tournaments
• Sleep pattern analysis and optimization for irregular competition schedules

Take Team Liquid's approach. When they implemented their health program in 2019, they weren't just trying to prevent injuries — they were looking for a competitive edge. The results? A 40% reduction in player injuries and an 8% improvement in average reaction times. That might not sound like much, but in esports, milliseconds matter.

But here's where it gets interesting. The teams that initially resisted these programs — thinking they were unnecessary overhead — found themselves at a disadvantage. Players started requesting trades to teams with better health support. The market spoke, and organizations listened.

Physical Training Adapted for Gaming Performance

Traditional athletic training doesn't work for esports athletes. You can't just throw them into a standard gym routine and expect results. Gaming-specific fitness programs reveal how specialized exercises improve gaming performance while preventing common injuries.

The training programs that work best focus on counteracting the negative effects of gaming posture. I've seen players transform their performance through targeted exercises that strengthen core muscles, improve hand-eye coordination, and increase cardiovascular endurance. It's not about building bulk — it's about building the specific type of fitness that gaming demands.

Gen.G's facility includes a full gymnasium, but it's not what you'd expect. Their players spend two hours daily on conditioning that's specifically designed for gaming. Yoga sessions improve flexibility and reduce tension. Strength training focuses on postural support. Cardio work increases blood flow to the brain, supporting the sustained concentration needed during long matches.

The results speak for themselves. Gen.G's League of Legends team showed a 15% improvement in late-game performance metrics after implementing their program. That's not coincidence — that's the direct result of players maintaining physical conditioning that supports their mental performance.

Mental Health Integration and Cognitive Performance

Here's something most people don't realize: physical fitness directly impacts mental performance in gaming. The teams that understand this connection have a significant advantage over those that don't.

Mental health support in esports addresses unique challenges. Players face intense scrutiny from fans, pressure to perform consistently, and the psychological toll of public competition. Physical exercise programs help manage stress and anxiety while improving mood and cognitive function. It's a virtuous cycle — better physical health leads to better mental health, which leads to better performance.

Cloud9's integrated approach combines physical fitness with mental health support in ways that make sense for their players. Group fitness activities build team cohesion while maintaining individual health goals. The program includes meditation sessions, stress management workshops, and one-on-one counseling when needed. They've found that players who maintain higher fitness levels demonstrate better decision-making under pressure and greater consistency across tournament play.

The data shows clear connections between physical fitness and competitive performance. Players who maintain higher fitness levels show improved reaction times, better decision-making under pressure, and greater consistency across tournament play. These metrics have become increasingly important for performance analysis and strategic planning.

Recovery protocols have evolved to match the demanding schedules of professional esports. Teams now implement structured rest periods, active recovery sessions, and sleep optimization programs. The goal isn't just maintaining peak performance — it's preventing burnout and physical deterioration that can end careers prematurely.

Some organizations have invested heavily in specialized recovery equipment. Massage therapy, cryotherapy chambers, and compression therapy systems help players recover from the physical stress of intense gaming sessions while maintaining their competitive edge. It sounds excessive until you see the results.

Tesla and NODWIN Unite for India’s Biggest Esports Showdown

• The association marks a defining moment for Indian esports, with Tesla Model Y cars set to be showcased at the grand finals of the country’s most-watched esports event from September 12 to 14

NODWIN Gaming, South Asia’s leading gaming and esports company, today announced a collaboration with American electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla for the Grand Finals of the Battlegrounds Mobile India Masters Series (BGMS) Season 4. This is Tesla’s first-ever collaboration with an Indian esports tournament, marking a historic moment for the country’s esports industry.

The Grand Finals of BGMS Season 4 will be held from September 12 to 14, bringing together the top 16 teams in the country to compete in a high-octane LAN Final. Tesla, which recently entered the Indian market by opening experience centers in BKC, Mumbai, and Worldmark Aerocity, Delhi, will showcase one of the world’s best-selling cars, the redesigned Model Y, at the event, giving fans a firsthand look at one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road. The Grand Finals will open with the Tesla Light Show, which has become a viral cultural phenomenon at global events over the years.

Both Tesla and NODWIN Gaming share a forward-looking identity of innovation, disruption, and technology leadership. Tesla’s integration of software, EV technology, and even gaming into its cars mirrors the digital-first mindset of esports. Collaborating with NODWIN Gaming for BGMS enables Tesla and NODWIN to mutually enhance their presence in India, engaging directly with a vibrant, youth-first community at the forefront of digital entertainment. As the only esports tournament in India broadcast on national television, the entire collaboration created unparalleled visibility among Gen Z and millennial audiences, highlighting the growing cultural and commercial significance of esports in the country.

“At NODWIN Gaming, every season of BGMS is about pushing boundaries, and this year we’re proud to have Tesla join the journey. Their association reflects how esports in India has grown into a mainstream cultural and commercial platform that forward-looking brands want to engage with. Together, we’re shaping how global brands and gaming communities connect, here in India and beyond. Collaborations like this show what’s possible when innovation and culture come together,” said Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming.

According to the FICCI-EY Media and Entertainment Industry Report 2025, the number of brands investing in esports in India is expected to grow from 68 in 2024 to 75 in 2025, fueled by new titles, larger tournaments, and deeper engagement with youth audiences. Season 4 of BGMS is a testament to this surge, with a powerful line-up of partners including OnePlus as Title Sponsor and Official Smartphone Partner, Android as Co-Title Sponsor, and TVS Motor Company entering its third consecutive year. The tournament also features Red Bull, Duolingo English Test, Swiggy, and Bisleri, further proving the sector’s growing ability to attract marquee global and Indian brands.

The BGMS Season 4 Grand Finals will be broadcast live on Star Sports Khel and on JioHotstar from September 12 to 14, airing during prime-time from 5 PM to 8 PM IST.

Skyesports Launches Gaming Mahotsav: A Pan-India Pop Culture IP Blending Gaming, Anime, and Regional Culture

Skyesports, a premier global IP and community builder, has announced the launch of Gaming Mahotsav, a first-of-its-kind pan-India hyperlocal pop culture festival that brings together gaming, comics, cosplay, live music, film launches, creator showcases, and regional culture under one banner.

Starting August 30-31 in the Chennai Trade Centre as Gaming Thiruvizha, each edition of this touring festival will take on a unique regional identity, infusing local language, culture, and fan interests, spanning six editions across the country. The tickets for the Chennai edition of the event will be exclusively available on the KYN app, a hyperlocal platform that enables like-minded people within a city to find their tribe through real-life experiences, events, and meaningful micro-interactions.

Gaming Mahotsav is a multi-format cultural experience. It’s where:

• Gaming meets cosplay
• Anime collides with Indian comics
• Merch alleys meet local art
• Creators perform live and engage with fans
• LAN tournaments take place in front of roaring crowds
• And the diversity of India takes center stage

“Gaming Mahotsav is our love letter to India’s pop culture fans. This is not just a gaming event, it’s a melting pot of regional identities, fandoms, and creativity. Whether you're a hardcore gamer, anime lover, chess player, or just want to vibe with creators and music, this festival is for you,” said Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO, Skyesports.

While gaming remains a core attraction, with open LAN events across major titles—it’s the celebration of regional pop culture and the growing overlap between comics, gaming, and youth entertainment that makes this IP one of the most exciting projects in India’s festival space.

Furthermore, adding to the glamour, every edition will have a cosplay tournament, inviting hundreds of cosplayers to compete and showcase their craft, judged by top creators, anime experts, and industry professionals. Additionally, all editions of the Gaming Mahotsav across India will play host to an under-16 Chess championship, and the top players will then meet in Pune to determine the India champion.

Gaming Mahotsav will travel across India with six unique regional editions, each named in the local language:

• Gaming Thiruvizha – Chennai, August 30-31
• Gaming Habba – Bengaluru, September 27-28
• Gaming Panduga – Hyderabad, TBA, 2025
• Gaming Mahotsav – Mumbai, TBA, 2025
• Gaming Ulsavam – Kochi, January 10-11, 2026

Each event will be ticketed and curated to reflect hyperlocal elements, making every stop a completely different yet connected celebration. The Gaming Thiruvizha in Chennai will be the first edition of the Gaming Mahotsav series, and tickets will be available exclusively on the KYN app.

Commenting on the association, Gayathri Thyagarajan, CEO of Kynhood Technologies and Founder of KYN, said, "At KYN, our vision is to be a one-stop solution offering differentiated experiences and new age entertainment while fostering strong hyperlocal communities within cities. This vision perfectly aligns with what Skyesports is creating through Gaming Thiruvizha. We are excited to come on board as the exclusive ticketing partner for the first edition in Chennai. Gaming Mahotsav is more than a festival. It is a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection, which are values that deeply resonate with everything we stand for at KYN."

Today’s youth don’t just play games as they watch anime, stream creators, attend live events, and watch or cosplay as their favorite characters. Gaming Mahotsav taps into this interconnected pop culture ecosystem, which has exploded in India in recent years.

According to FICCI-EY 2024, India has over 450 million gamers, and comic readership and anime consumption are rising rapidly across metros and Tier 2 cities alike. This festival series.

Social media trends show rising engagement between comic-inspired games, cosplay, and music-based creator content, indicating massive demand for cross-cultural events.

Sony LIV Secures Hindi & English Rights for Esports World Cup 2025 via NODWIN Gaming

NODWIN Gaming, South Asia’s leading esports and gaming company, has announced that Sony LIV has acquired the Hindi and English language media rights for select matches of the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025, further amplifying the tournament’s reach and representation across India.

As part of the partnership, Sony LIV will stream select matches from the Esports World Cup in India, bringing the action to millions of fans in languages they resonate with. Coverage begins with Chess in Hindi on July 24, followed by a Hindi livestream of EWC matches starting July 25, featuring India’s BGMI team Aryan x TMG Gaming among others. Tekken 8 kicks off on August 13.

The Hindi-language broadcast will be available exclusively on the Sony LIV app and official website.

In addition, Sony LIV will also stream the weekly shows, behind-the-scenes features, and player interactions spotlighting EWC athletes and teams, curated for both core and casual esports audiences. This collaboration follows NODWIN Gaming’s recent partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) to manage media rights and regional distribution across South Asia.

Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, said, “Our goal is to bring the Esports World Cup to as many passionate fans across South Asia as possible, and this partnership with Sony LIV is a major step in that direction. It combines Sony LIV’s incredible reach with NODWIN’s focus on building localized, fan-first esports experiences. With both Hindi and premium English content, we are creating a viewing experience that feels personal, immersive, and truly regional.”

The Esports World Cup 2025, organised by the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), is set to return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in summer 2025, featuring the world’s top esports clubs and players across multiple formats. With a record-breaking global prize pool of $70.45 million (over INR 600 crore) and an ever-expanding international audience, the tournament continues to raise the bar for competitive gaming worldwide.

With the addition of Sony LIV as the exclusive Hindi broadcast partner and NODWIN Gaming as the strategic regional media and marketing partner, the EWC is poised to reach unprecedented heights in South Asia. This aligns with the mission of making esports more inclusive, accessible and locally relevant.

The momentum in India is already building as the country gears up for its first-ever representation at the Esports World Cup. AxTMG were recently crowned BMPS 2025 champions, earning their place to represent the country at the Esports World Cup. In chess, Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi made history as the first Indian to qualify for the Esports World Cup 2025 and will compete under the banner of global esports powerhouse Gen.G Esports. Joining him are Grandmasters R Praggnanandhaa (India Rank: 1, World Rank: 4), Aravindh Chithambaram (India Rank: 4, World Rank: 11), Vidit Gujrathi (India Rank: 6, World Rank: 26) and Nihal Sarin (India Rank: 8, World Rank: 40), all representing the homegrown esports giant Team S8UL. Rising prodigy Aarav Dengla rounds out the contingent, making this India’s most formidable chess lineup ever on the global esports stage. 

With top-tier Indian talent competing across multiple titles, the Esports World Cup 2025 presents a unique opportunity to showcase India’s growing presence in global esports and to unite audiences around a shared national dream.

OnePlus Joins Forces with Gods Reign to Elevate India's Esports Scene

• Equipped with OnePlus’ best-in-class devices, the star-studded team is ready to push all the way to the top in India’s BGMI landscape. 
• The partnership will feature co-branded initiatives that highlight OnePlus’s commitment to performance and speed, while celebrating Gods Reign’s pursuit of gaming excellence

OnePlus, the global premium technology brand, has announced a strategic partnership with Gods Reign, one of India’s most accomplished esports organizations. The collaboration, enabled by Times One, part of Times OOH, represents a bold step in creating a high-performance, innovation-driven esports ecosystem in India.

With these partnerships, OnePlus aims to strengthen its position in the gaming market while contributing to the growing esports scene in India. OnePlus will integrate its latest technology into Gods Reign’s gaming environment. The collaboration will drive mutual growth through product feedback loops, co-branded activations, and amplified storytelling around Gods Reign’s journey across top-tier Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) tournaments.

Gods Reign has consistently made headlines with their strong performances across national and international tournaments. Earlier this year, they cemented their position as one of India’s top BGMI teams by winning the ESL Snapdragon Pro Series (SPS) Season 6 and taking home INR 50 lakh in prize money. With the BGMI Pro Series (BMPS) 2025 currently underway, where 96 of the country’s top teams are competing for a massive INR 2 crore prize pool, Gods Reign is driving their training and tournament push with OnePlus’ top-tier gaming technology.

OnePlus is dedicated to delivering performance that gamers can rely on, ensuring smooth frame rates, effective thermal management, and long-lasting battery life when it matters most, making the devices perfectly tuned to support the team through high-intensity training and competitive play.

The company also plans to involve these teams in its product development process. Players will give feedback on current devices, which will be used to improve performance in real-world gaming conditions. OnePlus is making a statement through this partnership that its devices are battle-tested and gamer-approved, rigorously refined through high-stakes competition.

“This partnership with OnePlus marks a significant milestone for our team. We're proud to be aligned with a brand that not only understands elite performance but also shares our hunger for innovation and excellence. With Times One's support, we look forward to creating impactful experiences for our fans and the gaming community,” said Mr. K R Rohith , CEO & Co Founder , Gods Reign.

The deal was facilitated by Times One, which connects forward-thinking brands with the vibrant esports and gaming audience through strategic collaborations and branded experiences.

“At Times One, we believe in the transformative power of esports as the next big cultural movement. Facilitating this partnership between OnePlus and Gods Reign underscores our mission to bring together premium brands and elite gaming talent. We are thrilled to play a pivotal role in scripting this chapter of India’s gaming evolution,” said Mr Kanishka Singh ,Head Gaming Business, Times One.

As per the FICCI-EY Media and Entertainment Industry Report 2025, the number of brands investing in esports is projected to grow from 68 in 2024 to 75 in 2025, while total player participation in tournaments is expected to grow from 2 million to 2.8 million in the same period. This growth signals a broader shift in how brands are recognizing esports as a credible, high-engagement platform. In this landscape, the partnership between OnePlus and Gods Reign is strategically aligned with where the industry is headed.

With this collaboration, OnePlus and Gods Reign are setting a new benchmark in brand-team synergies, offering fans high-octane gameplay powered by next-gen technology.

CyberPowerPC Powers India’s 1st Org-Led Esports Arena with High-Performance Gaming PCs

CyberPowerPC, a global leader in custom gaming computers, has officially partnered with Indian esports organization Orangutan to power its newly launched esports arena ApeCity with high-performance gaming PCs. This also includes top-end rigs designed to deliver the best gaming experience for competitive players, streamers, and casual gamers alike.

Located in the heart of Navi Mumbai, ApeCity is a dedicated space for the gaming and esports community that offers a premium experience for fans, creators, and competitive gamers. For many Indian gamers at the grassroots level, this will be their first experience with high-end PC gaming. The advanced systems from CyberPowerPC India will not only help them understand the capabilities of top-spec machines but also give them the ideal environment to practice, improve, and dream bigger.

As India sets its sights on competing at the Asian Games, where esports will once again be a medal event, and the Olympic Esports Games that follow, it’s clear that the country’s athletes need access to hardware that matches their skills. With the Asian Games featuring multiple PC titles such as League of Legends and Naraka Bladepoint, the demand for high-performance systems is greater than ever. However, not every aspiring gamer can afford top-end setups. This initiative by CyberPowerPC India gives them an opportunity to experience elite-level hardware without the financial burden. By providing access to best-in-class technology, the company aims to bridge this gap and create a space where raw talent can be empowered by world-class infrastructure.

Vishal Parekh, Chief Operating Officer, CyberPowerPC India said, “To grow the PC gaming ecosystem and truly prepare for global stages like the Olympic Esports Games, EWC, or the Asian Games, India needs more than just ambition. We need infrastructure, opportunity, and community. Not every gamer can buy a high-end rig, which is why this partnership with Orangutan is so important. Through ApeCity, we’re not only offering top-tier hardware but also scouting talent and providing a real platform where they can thrive. Whether it’s tournaments, content creation, or casual gaming, our goal is to give players an optimized environment that helps them push their limits and reach their full potential. We’re proud to do our bit to help Indian esports athletes rise and shine internationally.”

In addition to CyberPowerPC India’s gaming rigs, ApeCity features nine PlayStations for console enthusiasts, a state-of-the-art Sim Racing setup, and a Watchparty and Live Screening Zone for viewing major tournaments and matches. It also houses Chug and Chow by ApeCity, an in-house café built as a space for the community to relax, connect, and recharge.

Yash Bhanushali, Founder, Orangutan & ApeCity commented, “Building ApeCity has been a dream of mine since childhood - to create a space where gamers could come together, grow, and thrive. Orangutan has always believed in raising the bar for esports in India, and with ApeCity, we’re stepping into a new vertical that directly supports the grassroots community. Partnering with CyberPowerPC India was a natural fit. Their commitment to performance and empowering gamers aligns perfectly with our vision. With their high-end rigs powering our arena, we’re making elite level infrastructure accessible to everyone, whether you're a casual gamer, a rising star, or someone chasing big dreams in esports. This is just the beginning, and we're excited to redefine what community-led esports spaces look like in India.”

According to Niko Partners’ Indian Gamer Behaviour and Market Insights report, 77.3 percent of PC gamers in India spent more on games in Q1 2024 than the previous year, outpacing the spending growth in mobile and console gaming. Additionally, Steam reported a 150 percent increase in new users from India between 2019 and 2024, highlighting the growing adoption of PC gaming in the country.

This partnership with Orangutan reflects CyberPowerPC India’s strong focus on supporting the growth of PC gaming in India. Over the past year, the brand has consistently created opportunities for gamers beyond just offering high-end systems. At GamingCon last year, CyberPowerPC India ran an exclusive giveaway, where two Mumbai-based gamers won gaming PCs worth over INR 1 lakh each. Shortly after, at Bengaluru Comic Con, the brand hosted another giveaway, where an IITian won a custom-built PC worth INR 2.5 lakhs, reinforcing its mission to empower passionate gamers from all backgrounds.

Through its state-of-the-art systems at ApeCity, CyberPowerPC India aims to inspire and enable the next generation of Indian gamers. By offering them the best possible gaming experience at the grassroots level, the brand hopes to empower future esports athletes who may one day represent India on the world stage.

Tamil Nadu Govt Announces Chennai Esports Global Championship (CeGC), Set To Attract Global Esports Talent

In a monumental moment for Indian esports, the Tamil Nadu Government has announced the Chennai Esports Global Championship (CeGC), a global esports tournament initiated by an Indian state.

Link to announcement: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHu837ZBBwJ/?img_index=1

Set to take place in Chennai later this year, the CeGC will be a multi-title esports competition featuring top teams from around the world. This initiative marks one of the most significant investments by an Indian state government toward esports, reinforcing Tamil Nadu’s commitment to fostering the industry and elevating it to global standards.

The Youth Welfare and Sports Development Department of Tamil Nadu, which has been allocated an impressive ₹562 crore in the state’s 2025-2026 budget, is spearheading this initiative. A portion of this budget will be utilized to bring the CeGC to life, positioning Chennai as a premier destination for esports not just in India but globally—capable of hosting world-class competitions, just as it has done in the past with other international sporting events.

While the full list of game titles and tournament specifics is yet to be announced, the CeGC builds on the momentum created by Tamil Nadu’s pioneering efforts as esports gains popularity amongst the youth.

This includes the successful inclusion of esports in the CM's Trophy 2024, where Skyesports organized competitions across multiple game titles, attracting participation from more than 5,000 players across the state.

The announcement of the CeGC reflects a growing recognition of esports as a legitimate sport in India. It also aligns with national trends, following the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ decision earlier this year to include esports in its cash incentive program—a move that was widely welcomed by the esports industry.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, as esports has now been recognized as a medal sport at the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games, and is set to debut as a standalone Olympics Esports event in 2027. With the launch of the CeGC, Tamil Nadu is leading the charge to nurture homegrown talent and position India as a formidable contender in these prestigious global esports events.

Best Apps for Cricket Betting in India

Cricket betting has been one of the most popular ways through which the cricket enthusiasts are able to make money these days. But the main question which comes across the minds of the enthusiasts is related to the best betting apps for cricket. Since there are a number of betting apps for cricket available on the internet, choosing any one which fits all the requirements, which any user could expect, poses a challenge. If you are also having a look at the best betting apps in India for cricket, then fortunately you have landed at the right place.

The experts and analysts at Sportscafe.in have made it easier for the cricket enthusiasts to choose a betting app to place their bets on their favourite cricket matches. These applications have various features which make them a lot different from each other, but all of them have a common objective, which is to make cricket betting easier and accessible to the cricket fans.

How to choose the best app for Cricket betting?

Choosing the best app for cricket betting has always been a challenging task for all the cricket betting enthusiasts. As there are several factors, which set the online betting apps in India for cricket different from each other, there are a few of them which are important and should be considered by the users when they are choosing the best app for cricket betting. These factors are as follows:

• Reputation and Trustworthiness. The most important aspect of a cricket betting app is its reputation and trustworthiness in the betting industry. The cricket betting apps or platforms which have been in the market for a long time have generated trust among the cricket fans, which helps them to be among the best cricket betting apps.
• Bonuses and Promotions. Since most of the factors are available in almost every cricket betting app, the bonuses and promotions are the things which set these platforms different from each other. Users mostly look forward to those cricket betting apps which provide the best bonuses and promotions to both new and existing users.
• Payment Methods. The payment methods available for deposits and withdrawals on the cricket betting app chosen by the user, should include the commonly used payment methods in their country, for example; Paytm and UPI in India. Along with that, most of the cricket betting enthusiasts even look forward to those apps which take less time in processing the deposits and withdrawals.

There are various other factors which determine the best app for cricket betting, but these are some of the most important.
Most popular Cricket Betting Apps

The world of cricket betting is evolving, as the cricket enthusiasts can now also place their bets on their favourite cricket matches with the help of mobile applications. As cricket betting garners more popularity among the enthusiasts, the number of betting apps for cricket is also increasing. This makes it important for the cricket fans to use the most popular Cricket betting apps which are given below.

Parimatch App

Whenever the cricket enthusiasts discuss about the betting apps, Parimatch name stands at the top being the most popular Cricket betting app in India. This platform is known for its reliability along with its user-friendly interface which allows the Indian cricket fans to place their bets seamlessly and without any interruptions. Parimatch is also known for its exciting bonuses and promotions which it provides for various cricket events all around the world. This application supports various payment methods for the cricket fans which include UPI, Paytm, VISA, MasterCard, Net Banking, and many more. Using the Parimatch platform has always been easy for the cricket enthusiasts, as they are able to place their bets easily on their favourite teams and make money from the same.

Batery App

At second spot in the list stands the Batery App, known for its exciting features when it comes to cricket betting. With 4.9 stars rating, Batery app has made its reputation and trustworthiness among the Indian cricket betting fans. The mobile application for the Batery platform is available for both Android and iOS devices, and it even works on the minimal requirements. Batery app is also popular among the Indian betting enthusiasts, as the platform is available in English, Hindi, and Bengali language, making it easily accessible to various parts of the country. Through Batery App, players can also place their bets on Live cricket matches, allowing them to cash out their winnings whenever they want, as the odds are highly competitive.

MegaPari App

The MegaPari App stands at the third spot in the list of the most popular Cricket betting apps, as this platform has catered to almost every need of the new cricket bettors. Most of the new bettors try to look for a platform which has a low minimum deposit, to help them start their cricket betting journey with a low amount. MegaPari has a minimum deposit of just 55 rupees which can be done through various popular payment methods like VISA, Crypto, UPI, Skrill, Neteller, and much more. Unfortunately, the mobile application of MegaPari is only available to the Android users, while the iOS users could easily be able to access the MegaPari website, which offers the same features as the mobile application.

22bet

When talking about the most popular and most developed cricket betting apps, 22bet also makes it to the list with an impressive 4.7 stars rating. 22bet is registered legally under the Curacao Gaming Commission, with the licence 8048/JAZ2017-067. The cricket betting is intensively managed by this application, allowing the cricket fans to check for their favourite cricket tournaments with ease and place bets on the same, with the help of the 22bet application. Along with that, the highly competitive odds at 22bet allow the cricket fans to get the most of their bets placed on the cricket matches.

888starz

If players are looking forward to a cricket betting app, which offers them a wide selection of games, 888starz has all what they need. 888starz holds the fifth spot in the list with 4.6 stars rating, and this platform is widely regarded in the Indian betting market for its favourable betting odds and wide range of betting markets, which allows the cricket fans to put their cricket knowledge and make money through the same. The 888starz app also supports the Hindi language, and various payment methods available on the platform include VISA, Crypto, UPI, Neteller, and much more. 888starz is also popular in the Indian betting market, as this platform takes less time when it comes to withdrawals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the realm of cricket betting has been significantly transformed by the proliferation of mobile applications, offering enthusiasts a convenient platform to engage with their favourite sport and potentially earn profits. As the demand for the cricket betting apps is increasing day by day, it is necessary for the cricket enthusiasts to choose the right app, which fits their needs. Through careful consideration of factors such as reputation, bonuses, payment methods, and user experience, individuals can make informed decisions about which app best suits their needs. Some of the popular cricket betting apps have been mentioned above, including Parimatch, Batery, MegaPari, 22bet, and 888starz, each offers unique features and benefits catering to the diverse preferences of cricket enthusiasts in India and beyond. Ultimately, by choosing a reputable and reliable cricket betting app, users can enhance their betting experience while enjoying the thrill of cricket matches.

Source: https://sportscafe.in/cricket/online-cricket-betting-apps

EsportsXO Raises Next Funding Round Led by SOSV’s Orbit Startups and SucSEED Indovation Fund

Bengaluru-based EsportsXO secures next tranche of strategic investment to fuel expansion and growth

EsportsXO, a frontrunner in the esports and gaming startup landscape in India, announces an undisclosed amount in its ongoing funding round. The funding round was led by renowned investors SOSV’s Orbit Startups and existing investors SucSEED Indovation Fund and Mumbai Angels, with participation from other strategic backers such as WeFounderCircle and Imperial Holdings. This investment signals a crucial milestone for the company’s ambitious plans for expansion and innovation.

EsportsXO, founded in 2020 by Vikas Goel, Utsav Umang, and Rohit Raj, stands out as a trailblazer in the rapidly evolving esports sector. The company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge online esports tournament management systems has garnered attention and support from investors and industry leaders.

Vikas Goel, CEO and Co-founder of EsportsXO, shared his vision for the company’s future, and said, “XO aims to become the largest game and player discovery platform for gamers. Game advertising is a $130 Bn market. With BattleXO, we are not just targeting gamers but also addressing the needs of game developers and tournament organisers, enabling them to leverage technology for scalable reach through data-driven campaigns. The infusion of capital will further empower us to tackle the next significant challenge – expanding our company in size and increasing our user base.”

Accelerated Growth and Operational Excellence

EsportsXO has demonstrated robust growth over the past 18 months, investing time and resources in platform development, cost optimisation, and refining unit metrics. This strategic approach has resulted in a positive EBITDA for the last quarter and continued growth in the current quarter, reinforcing the startup’s financial sustainability. The recently secured funding is poised to play a pivotal role in amplifying EsportsXO’s business development initiatives and accelerating overall growth.

Oscar Ramos, Managing General Partner at Orbit Startups and Venture Partner at SOSV, highlighted the booming esports market in India, and said, “The esports market in India is taking off, driven not only by a growing fan base and the professionalisation of competitive gamers but also by the involvement of both local and international brands. These brands recognise the importance of the industry for the consumers of the future. The EsportsXO platform is built from the bottom up, enhancing the experience and maximising value for every party in the ecosystem.”

Investor Confidence and Continued Success

Vikrant Varshney, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of SucSEED Indovation Fund, expressed confidence in EsportsXO’s trajectory, and said, “EsportsXO is a SaaS-based platform to design, launch, and manage online esports tournaments by building a community for console, PC, and mobile gamers across the world on a unified platform. Since the time we funded them in the first round, EsportsXO has kept us impressed with their journey of growth. They have hosted 25,000+ tournaments, have 1000+ tournament organisers on their platform, generated over $4M lifetime revenue with less than $1.5M spend, and have distributed USD 100K+ in sponsored rewards. As the company prioritised growth, it has successfully generated value for stakeholders as well. We take immense pride in the notable expansion of our portfolio company.”

Vikas Goel added, “Just as technology has disrupted the healthcare, food, logistics, and commerce sectors, it is inevitable that gaming will undergo a similar transformation. EsportsXO is poised to lead this disruption from India, shaping the future of gaming.”

Founded by Vikas Goel, Utsav Umang, and Rohit Raj, EsportsXO is the sole company that adds comprehensive value to the entire gaming ecosystem, catering to the needs of gamers, game developers, and brands alike. The platform collaborates with game developers and brands to enhance visibility among the dynamic Gen Z gaming community through community-building and targeted advertising.

About EsportsXO

EsportsXO, headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka, has emerged as one of India's fastest-growing esports organisations since its establishment in 2020. EsportsXO has distinguished itself by providing cutting-edge online esports tournament management systems. Beyond its technological prowess, the organisation is home to a curated assembly of creators and athletes who collectively engage an audience surpassing a million, united by the common goal of cultivating the world's most extensive community of PC, mobile, and console gamers. To know more, visit www.battlexo.com.

Tech Mahindra Launches AI, ML, Analytics and AR/VR -Powered Sports Tech Platform Built on AWS

Tech Mahindra launches a sports cloud platform built on AWS to provide an immersive fan experience globally, powered by AI, ML, Analytics and AR/VR

To provide personalised fan experiences while offering data-driven insights to sports enthusiasts and organisations worldwide

Tech Mahindra, a leading provider of digital transformation, consulting and business re-engineering services and solutions, announced it has collaborated with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to build a sports cloud platform. The offering focuses on building next-generation digital capabilities for sports organisations and delivering immersive and personalised experiences to sporting enthusiasts worldwide. The sports cloud offering is the result of a Strategic Collaboration Agreement (SCA) signed between the two organisations in September, 2023, with a shared vision to bring the sports institutions closer to the fans, and the fans closer to the action. The SCA supports ease of access for Tech Mahindra to AWS resources and services, and allows both entities to participate in joint go-to-market initiatives and drive business growth.

The increasing need for enhanced experience among sports fans, the growing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) experience for efficient management of sports stadiums, and the growing demand for data-driven insights by sports organisations is expected to fuel the overall growth of sports technology.

Tech Mahindra and AWS will collaborate to offer a comprehensive digital platform to sports organisations, offering use cases related to content and community engagement, customer data management and audience segmentation, and sports analytics, while delivering immersive stadium-to-home fan experiences by leveraging augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/ VR), and metaverse gamification. The cloud offering will also enable sports organisations to build and transform digital properties of sports teams and franchises and generate new revenue streams by developing new services and features tailored to audience needs.

Tech Mahindra aims to deploy its sports cloud offering to enhance the digital capabilities of sports leagues, franchises, and organisations, providing immersive and personalised experiences to fans worldwide. Punjab Kings, a professional franchise Cricket team based in India, has been working with Tech Mahindra to engage fans by bringing content, community, and commerce together.

Satish Menon, CEO, Punjab Kings, said, “I'm pleased to know about Tech Mahindra’s collaboration with AWS to build a sports cloud, and it’s exciting that it can accelerate the digital transformation aspiration for sporting organisations. Combining action from on-and-off-the-field with digital initiatives can create new opportunities for global sporting organisations to engage fans and take them deeper into the game. This can enable sporting organisations to plan broadcasting and content development in more creative ways, and offer greater game insights, all from a fan’s perspective. My best wishes to the teams from Tech Mahindra and AWS.”

Built on AWS, the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud, Tech Mahindra’s sports cloud offering will be powered by real-time analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), high-performance compute for AR/ VR, enriched broadcasting, and Web 3.0 technologies, enabling high volumes of digital data to be processed in real-time, and providing sports fans with an elevated experience.

The platform will use AWS native services, and specialist AWS services such as AWS Elemental MediaLive for delivering 24/7 linear channels and live events at scale; AWS Elemental MediaConvert for transcoding content for broadcast and multi-screen delivery; Amazon Kinesis Data Streams for storing and ingesting various streaming data in real-time at any scale; and Amazon Managed Blockchain, a fully managed service designed to help customers build resilient Web 3.0 applications on both public and private blockchains. Tech Mahindra will also leverage Amazon SageMaker – a fully managed ML service from AWS that enables developers and data scientists to build, train, and deploy ML models for any use – to power AR/VR video and image analytics, and enable fans to experience virtual stadium tours, live events, shopping, and access footage from sporting events.

Samira Bakhtiar, General Manager, Media, Entertainment & Sports, AWS, said, “AWS provides cloud-enabled technologies that are at the heart of digital innovation, athlete performance optimisation, and epic fan engagement, transforming the way sports are played, analysed, and enjoyed. Tech Mahindra shares our passion for the sports industry, and our belief that cloud, AI, ML, and emerging technologies will drive the sports technology of the future. Our collaboration with Tech Mahindra will enable leading sports organisations to take the fan experience to the next level by creating immersive experiences and providing data-driven insights. We are excited about the potential to make sports more engaging and enjoyable for fans, and more productive for sports organisations around the world.”

Jagdish Mitra, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Growth, Tech Mahindra, said, “New-age technology and data-driven insights are changing the way we consume sports. At Tech Mahindra, we are committed to investing in sports tech to provide personalised experiences for sports fans worldwide. Our collaboration with AWS, that offers the broadest and deepest set of cloud services, will transform how fans interact with their favourite sports, creating a dynamic and captivating experience for viewers. By building sports cloud on AWS, we aim to build a personalised, fan-focused community that transcends physical sports. The platform is positioned to disrupt the sports tech industry by providing opportunities for sports organisations and franchises worldwide to create a delightful fan engagement experience that is built on content and community, leading to commerce.”

As part of its NXT.NOWTM framework, which aims to enhance ‘Human Centric Experience’, Tech Mahindra has a deep focus on leveraging cutting-edge technologies to deliver enhanced experience and enable digital transformation to meet the evolving needs of the customer.

Tech Mahindra offers innovative and customer-centric digital experiences, enabling enterprises, associates, and society to Rise for a more equal world, future readiness, and value creation. It is a USD 6.5+ billion organisation with 148k+ professionals across 90 countries helping 1250+ global customers, including Fortune 500 companies. It is focused on leveraging next-generation technologies including 5G, Metaverse, Blockchain, Quantum Computing, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and more, to enable end-to-end digital transformation for global customers. It is the only Indian company in the world to receive the HRH The Prince of Wales’ Terra Carta Seal for its commitment to creating a sustainable future. It is the fastest growing brand globally in ‘brand value rank’ and among the top 7 IT brands globally in brand strength with AA+ rating. With its NXT.NOWTM framework, Tech Mahindra aims to enhance ‘Human Centric Experience’ for its ecosystem and drive collaborative disruption with synergies arising from a robust portfolio of companies. It aims at delivering tomorrow’s experiences today and believes that the ‘Future is Now’.

Tech Mahindra is part of the Mahindra Group, founded in 1945, one of the largest and most admired multinational federation of companies with 260,000 employees in over 100 countries. It enjoys a leadership position in farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology, and financial services in India and is the world’s largest tractor company by volume. It has a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality, and real estate. The Mahindra Group has a clear focus on leading ESG globally, enabling rural prosperity and enhancing urban living, with a goal to drive positive change in the lives of communities and stakeholders to enable them to Rise.

An Average User Spends Less Than an Hour a Day & Less Than ₹100 a Month on Online Gaming: Report

The report by Esya Centre assesses market forces and user behaviours across three digital entertainment avenues: Social Media, OTT and Online Gaming.

Outlines that the policymakers’ concerns around online gaming are unsupported by user time-spend and money-spend data.

An academic version of this report is published in an IIM-A working paper.

Esya Centre, a leading tech & policy think tank, released a report titled “New-Age Digital Consumption: A Survey of Social Media, OTT Content and Online Gaming" that examines the consumption and engagement patterns of users across three digital entertainment avenues: Social Media, OTT and Online Gaming including real money gaming, e-sports and casual gaming. An academic version of this report is published in an IIM-A working paper co-authored by Dr. Rajat Sharma, Associate Professor, IIM-Ahmedabad and Dr. Vikash Gautam, Adjunct Fellow, Esya Centre. The paper outlines that policy concerns around unwanted user actions, especially in online gaming, are not supported by user time-spend or money-spend data.

The report delves into data gathered through a comprehensive survey conducted across ten major cities: Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Patna, Mysuru, Lucknow, Jaipur, and Bhopal. This survey involved 2,000 respondents and was further supported by in-app data from over 20.6 lakh users, spanning across 143 mobile applications.

Below are the key findings of the report:

• Behavioural lock-in: Daily engagement in terms of time spent is the highest for social media at 194 minutes a day. This number for OTT and Online Gaming stands at 44 minutes and 46 minutes, respectively.
• Time and use pattern: A median user spends less than INR 100 a month and less than an hour a day on online gaming. The corresponding number is INR 200-400 for OTT.
• Price Sensitivity: Users say that a 30% increase in participation fee for online games may lead to a 71% dip in engagement, indicating a high price sensitivity. This number would only be 17% for OTT.
• User Motivation: While OTT is considered a significant stress buster, 28% of Digital Nagriks consider online gaming important for their employment prospects.
• 3User Stickiness: While all users are active on Social Media once a month, the corresponding number for OTT and Online Gaming is 60% and 40% respectively. 89% users are active every day on Social Media while only 22% and 12% are active on OTT and Online Gaming respectively.

Commenting on the key insights from the report, Amjad Ali Khan, Director at the Esya Centre said “There is a lack of research examining both policy and user adoption trends in key digital markets. We believe that the findings of the report are very relevant, especially at a time when the Government is in the process of formulating user-centric policies for the digital industries. We hope that the insights from the report will help inform a forward-looking policy stance that focuses on user protection over paternalistic interventions and blanket bans.”

Further, calling India’s regulatory landscape more progressive than its peers, Mr. Rajat Sharma, Associate Professor, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A) said that “India is moving from a command-and-control model of regulatory oversight to a light touch model for new industries. While technology is dynamic, consumption patterns are more predictable. Therefore, building a profile of a Digital Nagrik and their consumption patterns can form the crux to an agile policy ecosystem for the three sectors. An attempt our report aims to make.”

The report comes after the GST Council’s meeting that changed the GST levied on the online gaming industry from 18% on Gross Gaming revenue (GGR) to 28% on deposits, leading to a 350%-400% jump in the industry’s GST outgo. User addiction and loss of money were cited as some key reasons behind this steep hike. Interestingly, MeitY earlier this year published rules to regulate the industry. The rules were hailed as balanced, and laser focused on user safety. The ministry is soon expected to notify Self-Regulatory Bodies for the regulatory oversight of the industry.

According to the report, user safety, grievance redressal and cumbersome KYC requirements are the three key points of concern for users across Social Media and Online Gaming. Users of OTT however describe their experience as smooth on almost all accounts - which is a testimony to the standardization of quality of service in an otherwise heterogeneous digital entertainment industry.

About Esya Centre:

The Esya Centre is a New Delhi based technology and innovation policy think tank. It generates empirical research to catalyse new policy constructs for the future. It simultaneously aims to build institutional capacities and new communities to address emerging technology related challenges and opportunities.

https://www.esyacentre.org

Social Networking App for Gamers Qlan Secures $200K Pre-Seed Funding Led By Marwah Sports, CIIE.CO and Faad Network

Equity Investment by three incoming investors; led by Marwah Sports, CIIE.CO and Faad Network

With more than 100k combined downloads from PlayStore and AppStore, the gamers’ social network showcases its commitment to solution-driven experiences

The early-stage start-up will utilise the capital to expand its gamer community, gain deeper insights into user preferences, and establish a robust product-market fit

Qlan, the exclusive social networking app designed for gamers and esports enthusiasts, has secured pre-seed funding to fuel its expansion and enhance gamer networking, discovery, and content creation capabilities.

Previously operating as a bootstrapped startup, Qlan which now has over 100,000 combined downloads, underwent an extensive six-month beta testing period, culminating in the platform's full-version launch in January 2023. Bolstered by a committed team of over 20 professionals, the early-stage start-up achieved healthy organic growth, attracting a user base of over 50,000 gamers.

Qlan has effectively initiated itself as a thriving hub for gamers and esports enthusiasts with early adopters across the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, North & South America, South Africa, and the MENA regions, ultimately leading to a successful pre-seed funding round.

Qlan’s unparalleled approach of making a positive impact on the grassroots of the gaming industry attracted significant support from notable investors which included Marwah Sports, CIIE.CO, and Faad Network in the funding round. These investments will help Qlan in its vision of empowering gamers all over the world with an engaging and seamless networking opportunity.

Expressing his thoughts on the funding round, Sagar Nair, Co-founder, and CEO of Qlan commented, "The pre-seed funding round signifies an exciting new phase for Qlan, and we are delighted to have Marwah Sports, CIIE.CO, and Faad Network as backers. This demonstrates the remarkable potential of Qlan and the burgeoning global gaming and esports industry. While we are grateful for the worldwide validation of Qlan by gamers, our primary objective now is to scale our platform, optimize user experience, and gain deeper insights into our community's needs. With the invaluable support of our investors, we are poised to elevate Qlan to new horizons and empower the ever-expanding global community of gamers”

The investors backing Qlan have a distinguished portfolio of having supported and nurtured successful ventures in the past. Marwah Sports, the sports arm of the more than 60-year-old enterprise Marwah Group, has backed several marquee ventures including sports hardware manufacturing companies Square Off and Elevar, and sports tech companies Uactiv and Sporjo.

“Meaningful and engaged communities will form the bedrock of the fledgling Indian and global gaming ecosystem. With Qlan, individuals and organisations can focus on what is most important – retention and engagement. We are encouraged and excited by the progress made by the team – this is only just the beginning!” – Pranav Marwah; CEO - Marwah Sports & Director of Marwah Group.

CIIE.CO is the Innovation Continuum spreading from incubation, acceleration, seed, and growth funding to research. CIIE.CO has accelerated over 1000 entrepreneurs/startups, funded in over 300 startups, mentored, and coached over 5000 startups

”Esports in India is witnessing "green shoots" of tailwinds. With the government priming up with recognition, regulatory frameworks should follow suit. Parallelly there is a sharp rise in esports athletes, teams, events, sponsors turning to franchises etc. There will be a need to bridge these facets with a community-driven solution and enable growth. This is where Qlan fits in and would be ripe to tap into what we feel is a sunrise sector in India today.” - Chintan Antani; VP Seed Investing - CIIE.CO.

Faad Network Limited, a well-renowned investor network, has a substantial portfolio in the Esports domain that includes India’s first cloud gaming service, the Gaming Project, and Esports XO which is one of the country’s fastest-growing organizations.

“India has over 400 million online gamers, with a total market size of over 4 billion dollars. Not only do 90% of these gamers transact, but they also maintain an active social profile to connect with other gamers. This is where we found a fit in Qlan, which is building a comprehensive solution to join gamers and esports enthusiasts. The stellar team understands these gamers' space and pulse and will drive home a scalable business.” – Aditya Arora; CEO – Faad Network Limited.

According to the latest research by SkyQuest Technology, the Global Esports Market was valued at USD 1.08 Billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach a value of USD 2.8 Billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 14.50% over the forecast period (2022-2028). Esports is becoming increasingly popular as a result of global digitization and the low cost of advanced gaming technologies.

Emphasizing the importance of establishing strong fundamentals, driving growth, and attaining product-market fit, Qlan plans to utilize the funds raised in the Pre-Seed round to not only expand its platform to a wider community but also to bolster its team and leverage its technologically advanced product, which is meticulously crafted with a focus on user-centric principles.

ABOUT QLAN:

Qlan is dedicated to cultivating an engaged and sustainable gaming and esports ecosystem that prioritizes accessibility and exploration. By uniting all key players in the industry, Qlan aims to establish a vertical community where gamers and esports enthusiasts can effortlessly enter, discover new avenues, and thrive.

On the Qlan app, users can establish gaming profiles, connect with gamers possessing comparable skill levels, explore and share gaming content, unlock exciting gaming rewards, and much more.

The objective is to leverage technology in order to address the issues of insufficient discovery, ineffective networking, and difficulties faced by aspiring gamers trying to crack the world of gaming and esports.

Actor Tiger Shroff Invests in Revenant Esports

Global brands AMD, PUMA, CORSAIR and CYBEART have announced associations with Revenant Esports in the past

The youngest action superstar, Tiger Shroff ensured Bollywood's foray into the Indian Esports industry with his decision to invest an undisclosed amount in Revenant Esports, one of India’s fastest-growing esports teams. The decision was announced in a joint press release on Monday.

This strategic investment comes as a huge boost to Revenant Esports who now plans to utilize the latest funding to bolster their Esports rosters, content creators, and bootcamp infrastructure as well as invigorate their ambition of cementing Revenant Esports’ name as the finest Esports organization in India and expanding its footprint globally.

"We are delighted to welcome Tiger Shroff to the Revenant Esports family. Everyone is well aware of his fondness for gaming and connects with the millennial and Gen Z audience. In Revenant he has the perfect platform to be more actively involved with the Indian gaming community. The entertainment industry starting to set foot in the world of gaming is massively beneficial to the industry as it helps spread awareness about its potential and importance among the not-so-informed Indian population. Tiger's massive fanbase and his zeal for gaming will accelerate our vision of creating an enriching and engaging ecosystem for our organization as well as for the Esports community as a whole," said Rohit Jagasia, CEO and Founder of Revenant Esports.

First-gen entrepreneur, Rohit initially started with a single-game roster in BGMI for Revenant Esports in 2021 which has now grown many folds with the organization presently having multiple content creators and multi-game rosters that not only compete in innumerable major Esports tournaments but also win laurels for the country.

Tiger Shroff shares a great passion for fitness, games, and MMA and is also an avid Esports enthusiast had made his passion for gaming known by engaging in various gaming activities in the past. The young superstar’s decision has initiated the coming together of the two most powerful genres in cinema and esports-a cocktail of which has all the ingredients to be the most successful brand alliances.

Speaking on what this association means to him, Tiger Shroff said, “Revenant Esports is one of the biggest names of the Esports landscape in India and I am delighted to be a part of it. They have achieved commendable success in such a short span and with the gaming and Esports revolution taking the country by storm I am confident that Rohit’s and my passion, knowledge, and vision will help us to achieve remarkable success and experience. Being an ardent gamer myself and having followed the industry closely, I also hope to use this association as a launchpad to more meaningful growth in the sector.”

Revenant Esports boasts of being home to some of the country’s best Esports talents as well as the leading content creators. The organization has proved its mettle on the regional and international stage by triumphing in multiple international tournaments such as the BGMI: Master Series(Star Sports) Valorant: Valorant Challengers League South Asia, Pokemon Unite: Asia Champions League 2023, Brawl Stars: ESL Masters Japan, Apex Legends: ALGS Split 2 playoffs, and CODM: World Championship 2021.

In recent times, they have brought on-board three of the most watched content creators in the Indian Gaming scene which are Emperor Plays, Bitty and Ayush is live and plans to add more valuable creators in the upcoming months.

Last year, their Pokemon Unite roster became the very first Indian team to represent the country at the Pokemon Unite World Championships in London.

As per the recently launched FICCI-EY report “Windows of Opportunity", the number of Esports players across all competitive level games in India increased from 600,000 in 2021 to 1 million in 2022, and it is expected to reach 2.5 million in 2023. The number of brands investing in Esports in India grew from 72 in 2021 to 80 in 2022, and it is estimated to reach 100 in 2023.

Revenant had recently onboarded high-profile brand associations with global brands like AMD, PUMA, CORSAIR and CYBEART. This investment from a key Bollywood icon further proves how the entertainment industry can leverage the Indian Esports industry with its limitless potential.

Revenant Esports is an esports organization built from the ground up. From humble beginnings to exponential growth, the objective of Revenant Esports has been to be the leading esports company in India. Revenant Esports was founded in 2020 and it has an active roster in 8 esports titles with home to 45+ athletes, the organization want to create a holistic environment to nurture the development of esports.

The company was founded by Rohit Naresh Jagasia and the company received their last funding of $1 million in May 2021 from Adman turned investor Sajan Raj Kurup. Revenant aims to be the ‘go-to’ destination for casual gamers as well as pro gamers. It wishes to create an engaging ecosystem that enables all endemic, non-endemic and aspirational brands to use the power of esports for advertising and brand building. You can learn more about the organization here: https://revenantesports.com/

Fantasy Akhada raises $11 million in funding led by Florintree

Super Six Sports Gaming Pvt. Ltd. (SSSG), the parent company of daily fantasy sports brand Fantasy Akhada, has raised $11 million in a fresh round of funding. The round was led by Florintree Advisors (run by Mathew Cyriac, ex-MD of Blackstone India). It also saw participation from existing investors, Mukul Agrawal (Param Capital) and Varalakshmi Enterprises (Family Office of the GMR Group). This has taken the overall funding raised by the company till date to over $20 million.

Prime Securities was the exclusive Investment Banker for the transaction.

Launched in 2020, the Gurugram-based startup has seen phenomenal growth over the past 3 years. Valued at $135 million today, Fantasy Akhada has stood out in a cluttered market with top-notch customer service, innovative acquisition & retention schemes and a superior product in terms of technology. Their biggest marketing campaign till date, #KhelTumharaAkhadaHumara feat. Harsha Bhogle & Ali Fazal was well recognized as one of the best marketing campaigns during IPL last year.

The company plans to utilize the funding to strengthen their position as one of the best fantasy sports brands in the country. Apart from this, they plan to launch a new brand that focuses on streaming, content and analytics. Additionally, the company is focused towards building world-class technology products that will drive sports engagement in the country.

Amit Purohit, Founder and Group CEO, SSSG said, “In January 2023, we achieved operational profitability for the first time and demonstrated a clear path to company-level profitability. The fact that we were able to achieve a big milestone in that journey in January has given us a lot of confidence that we can deliver more brands that will enhance the sporting culture in India. This fundraise will help us achieve the current business plan.”

Sumit Kumar Jha, Founder and Group COO, SSSG added “We are excited to onboard a fresh set of investors. Some of our existing investors have also shown their confidence in our vision once again. We are committed towards increasing sports engagement in the country through technology. We believe that sports consumption in India has massive headroom for growth and we will help accelerate the same. The country, I believe, is at the cusp of a sporting revolution.”

“There is a digital revolution that we are witnessing in India with 1 billion smartphones in the hands of people. Technology would be the key driver in making India, a truly multi-sport nation.” said Mathew Cyriac, Florintree Advisors.

He added, “The company has a clear vision to expand beyond gaming and become a force to reckon with in the Sports Tech space.”

Mr. N Jayakumar, Managing Director, Prime Securities said “We have been working together with SSSG since April 2021. With tremendous growth and a clear path to profitability, the company is on track to being one of the best sports tech companies of the country. With the Women’s Premier League already on and the Indian Premier League fast approaching, the funding sets the perfect platform for SSSG to catapult into the next level of growth.”

President of India Droupadi Murmu is an inspiration for all of us”- Women Gamers said at Skyesports Grand Slam 2023

Skyesports organised the first event all-female Valorant LAN event in India

The visit by the President highlights the government’s commitment to bolster the promotion of female empowerment in Sports and Esports

The Honorable President of India, Droupadi Murmu presence at the India Gaming Show (IGS) during the country’s first-ever all-female Valorant event organized by Skyesports recently has created a long-lasting impact on the female gaming community.

Skyesports, one of the leading Esports tournament organizers in India, had orchestrated the all-female Windows 11 Skyesports Grand Slam, powered by AMD, featuring the top 3 all-women teams from India competing for glory. The event happened at the JetSynthesys Gaming Arena in the IGS.

The Hon’ble President discussed the scope of women empowerment in the gaming industry whilst also understanding the ways and means to develop the sector in a more inclusive manner with Mr. Rajan Navani, the Founder and CEO, JetSynthesys and also Mr. Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO, Skyesports.

Commenting on the unique opportunity, Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO, Skyesports said, “It was really exciting to meet our Hon’ble President Shrimati Droupadi Murmu at the India Gaming Show 2023. The Indian gaming and esports industry is in its golden age currently with huge growth opportunities in store. Skyesports has always aimed at ensuring gender parity in the Esports industry by organizing all-female tournaments and I am grateful for this chance to showcase what we’ve built as it motivates us to push harder and contribute to developing India’s gaming and esports industry in a much more inclusive manner. While India is slowly becoming a big player in the global games and tech market, we will be here to support that growth trajectory and put the country on the world map.”

The Honorable President of India, Droupadi Murmu presence at the India Gaming Show (IGS) 2023

Addressing the recently held IGS 2023, Rajan Navani, Chairman and MD, JetSynthesys said, “The Hon. Droupadi Murmu's inspiring presence at the CII's Indian Gaming Show 2023 was a reminder of the immense potential of India's gaming and esports industry. The show highlighted the brilliant minds driving this revolution and the enthusiasm of the millions of gamers in India. Skyesports has revolutionised the gaming industry with the Windows 11 Grand Slam receiving an overwhelming 5 million views across two days. Remarkably, female gamers have made their mark in gaming and esports, bringing in a new level of enthusiasm and excitement to the Indian gaming community.”

According to a report ‘Gaming: Tomorrow’s Blockbuster’ by TeamLease Digital, the Indian gaming industry is estimated to grow by 20% to 30% by 2023 and create approximately two lakh jobs by 2024.

The interactions with the president of the country was equally an opportunity to remember for the gaming girls who are now motivated to make a mark for themselves not only in gaming but in life too.

“I feel really great,” said Grace Esports’ Meow16k after becoming the Champion of the tournament as well as getting an opportunity to showcase her skill in front of the Hon’ble President; “first of all, this is the first all-female VALORANT LAN. Thanks to Skyesports for organizing such a great event and bringing a chance for us to play on stage. And yes I am feeling fabulous, first LAN and it's in our pocket.”

By regularly organizing women-only Esports tournaments as well as cross-regional competitions across various titles, Skyesports aims to provide a strong platform for budding athletes, especially women talents and also aims to capitalize on the ever-growing Esports industry by becoming a pioneer in the industry.

The Tournament was an initiative by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and supported by the Government of India.

About Skyesports - Skyesports is a leading esports and gaming venture based in Chennai, renowned for hosting major esports tournaments. Founded in November 2018 by Shiva Nandy, Skyesports has quickly grown to become one of the largest esports companies in South Asia. They have has an impressive range of original IPs, which include the Skyesports Championship, Skyesports League, Skyesports Grand Slam, Skyesports Skirmish Series, and more, through which Skyesports has touched millions of gamers across South Asia and beyond. Skyesports is a part of the digital entertainment and technology company, JetSynthesys.

Indian Cricketer Deepak Chahar Turns Entrepreneur, Enters the Gaming Ecosystem With Fantasy Platform TFG

Deepak Chahar is also the brand ambassador for TFG

India International cricketer Deepak Chahar is entering the gaming space with fantasy game platform TFG (Trade Fantasy Game). The venture marks his debut in the entrepreneurial space as the Co-founder along with wife Jaya Chahar who will serve as the CEO of JCDC Sports Pvt Ltd. Deepak Chahar, who will also play the role of the brand ambassador, will look to connect and engage with his fan base of over 5 million users across platforms.

JCDC Sports Pvt. Ltd. is a sports technology company established in March 2022 and is headquartered in Delhi. The company aims to reach 1 million users by FY24 and introduce 2 new features in the next 2 quarters to increase reach and engagement leading to larger user acquisitions.

Co-founder and brand ambassador, Deepak Chahar, said, “This is thrilling and I am looking forward to this new venture as an entrepreneur. TFG will allow me to reach my fans in a whole new way. I hope to leverage my knowledge of cricket and harness technology to reach out to millions while connecting and engaging with them and adding value to the sport and the cricketing ecosystem as well.”

(L-R) Jaya Chahar and Deepak Chahar

Commenting on the new venture, Jaya Chahar, Founder & CEO, JCDC Sports, said “The gaming industry has been witnessing fast paced growth and seeing a rise in gamers daily. Being from the cricketing community, this venture was the best way to extend ourselves by entering the cricket fantasy space and taking the sport from the field to the gaming arena.”

Unlike other fantasy sports games, TFG will reward not only the user’s skillset but also the user’s loyalty and their frequent participation, i.e. both player performance and user participation will play a significant role in increasing the user’s digital collectibles. The game will engage users with features like wildcards, fantasy clashes, trading of cards, venue statistics, etc., which will enrich their journey on the platform towards absolute rewards and ownership of player cards with a long term vision to be the most engaging and entertaining platform for all sports viewers in India.

The game will be available to download from the website (https://www.tradefantasygame.in/), Playstore and IOS. 

For a look at 'how to play the game' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moBtS-j9yf4