Esports in India is on the rise this year, and it’s all thanks to the recent kick off of the BGMI Rising Stars 2025 initiative. This program was launched by KRAFTON India Esports – with an aim to transform potential talents into becoming India’s finest in the game. Eight players have been chosen in its first cohort, which includes current performers like Samihan Kulkarni and Saumya Raj. Notably, they both have made it to the BGIS (Battlegrounds Mobile India Series) Grand Finals.
BGMI Rising Stars Programme: A Launchpad for Gaming Glory
A Vision Backed by Action
Now, the BGMI Rising Stars is a full-fledged development program. It’s completely tailored for young Battlegrounds Mobile India players looking to shine in the game, and perhaps even beyond to other Esports tournaments. This program was also designed to identify, mentor, and level up the brightest prospects – signifying the country’s seriousness in the future of Esports in India.

Significantly, this launch is taking place at the BGIS Grand LAN Finals 2025 in Kolkata – so the timing alone is rather symbolic.
According to Karan Pathak, Associate Director of Esports at KRAFTON India, “BGMI Rising Stars 2025 is a celebration of passion, potential and the future of Indian esports. It’s not just about identifying talent — it’s about supporting it with intent.”
Meet the First Eight
BGMI Rising Stars’ initial roster includes eight specially curated players. They have thus far shown exemplary skill, charisma, and of course, commitment. Raj and Kulkarni, in particular, are already making a name for themselves in major tournaments. Plus, they have dual recognition as Rising Stars and Grand Finals contenders, which is an inspiration in and of itself to aspiring athletes for Esports in India.
For Raj, the experience is more than just an accolade: “This initiative is exactly what Indian Esports needed — it makes you believe in yourself a little more.” Kulkarni added, “This platform is a game-changer. It makes all the grind worth it.”
A Holistic Support System for Esports in India
Being selected for the BGMI Rising Stars isn’t just a badge of honor. Here, the players get integrated in KRAFTON’s Esports roadmap. So it’s more than just elevating their talent in Battlegrounds Mobile India. This also means more opportunities for growth outside the major Indian Esports game, technical coaching, and of course, professional exposure.
Why BGMI Rising Stars Matters for Esports in India

The Indian gaming industry is growing rapidly, so BGMI Rising Stars addresses an essential space within it. The program implements organized systems which create trustworthy value and strategic understanding that has been lacking in basic-level esports activities. This program demonstrates that pro-level gaming exists beyond fantasy territory, because it represents a sustainable career path for gamers.
Through KRAFTON platforms and associated Esports betting platforms like 12BET, fans can observe the advancement of these esports talents. Multiple upcoming tournaments alongside sponsorships and training facilities will transform the standards of success in gaming through this program.
Final Word: The Future Is Now
The BGMI Rising Stars 2025 launch is truly a turning point for Esports in India. In nurturing these young talents through structured, they’re building a foundation for generations of Indian gamers to come. And with heavy-hitting talents like Raj and Kulkarni already joining the fray, the future is truly bright.