In a milestone move for Indian esports, KRAFTON India Esports has unveiled the inaugural lineup of the BGMI Rising Stars 2025 program. Launched at the BGIS Grand LAN Finals in Kolkata—a marquee event featuring the country’s top 16 teams vying for a massive ₹3.2 crore prize pool—the initiative aims to nurture the next wave of esports champions.
The program goes beyond talent scouting, offering a structured platform for young athletes to evolve into mainstream gaming icons. Eight promising players have been chosen to headline this first cohort, symbolizing a new dawn for India's gaming scene.
Among the standout selections, Saumya Raj and Samihan Kulkarni not only earned their place as Rising Stars but also secured qualification for the BGIS Grand Finals, signaling the arrival of a new generation ready to redefine the competitive landscape.
"BGMI Rising Stars 2025 is a celebration of passion, potential, and the future of Indian esports," said Karan Pathak, Associate Director of Esports at KRAFTON India. "It’s about nurturing dreams and building the next big names who will inspire millions."
