India’s Gaming Prodigies Shine in Meeting with PM Narendra Modi
In a landmark gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened with some of the most prominent figures in the Indian gaming industry to forge discussions on the burgeoning scope and the promising horizon of gaming in the nation. The dialogue, rich with insights, spanned the evolutionary trajectory of gaming in India, the burgeoning career opportunities within the digital domain, the inclusive participation of women, and the hurdles gamers grapple with in their pursuit of digital excellence.
Central to their exchange was the differentiation between skill-based gaming ventures and those driven by the lure of quick financial gains, a distinction vital for the nurturing of a healthy gaming ecosystem. The challenges of video game addiction also garnered attention, prompting a discussion on finding the optimal balance between passion and moderation in gaming.
Among the distinguished gamers who shared their insights with PM Modi, Naman Mathur, better known as “Mortal”, stood out as an influential figure in the esports arena. At 26, Mortal has already left an indelible mark on the PUBG Mobile scene, securing a victory in the Season 1 of Battleground Mobile Pro Series 2022. His role extends beyond the battlegrounds; as a co-founder of S8UL Sports, Mortal is at the forefront of advocating for and nurturing esports talent across India.
Animesh Agarwal, or “Thug” as he is popularly known, has carved a niche for himself through his engaging gameplay videos and live streams. Thug’s contribution to spreading the esports phenomenon in India goes deeper with his role in establishing 8 Bit Creatives and S8UL Sports, platforms that have been instrumental in shaping the careers of many aspiring gamers. His participation in the first international PUBG Mobile tournament has also earned him acclaim and a vast digital following.
Another notable personality is Anshu Bisht, who dons the virtual identity of Gamerfleet. Best recognized for his Minecraft adventures, the 26-year-old has amassed a considerable following on YouTube, thanks to his lively streams and video blogs.
Ganesh Gangadhar, alias “Skrossi”, is celebrated for his prowess in the global esports domain, particularly with the game Valorant. Marking a significant milestone, Skrossi became the first Indian to compete in the Valorant Champions Tour. His contributions to the gaming community are commendable, often sharing valuable gameplay insights and strategies with his audience on YouTube and Twitch.
Entering the realm of esports with a unique accolade, Tirth Mehta, also known as “Gcttirth,” has demonstrated exceptional talent as a gamer and game developer. The 26-year-old proudly brought home a bronze medal in esports from the 2018 Asian Games, a first for India in the sport.
At the forefront of game design, 23-year-old Payal Dhare has emerged as one of the country’s leading figures. Her innovative contributions to video game design were recognized with the Dynamic Gaming Creator of the Year award at Creators United 2023.
Last but certainly not least, Mithilesh Patankar, or MythPat, has become a household name for gaming enthusiasts across India. The 27-year-old’s knack for blending entertainment with gaming content has earned him a unique place in the heart of the streaming community, with the distinction of being nominated twice for the Streamy Awards.
The rendezvous between Prime Minister Modi and these gaming luminaries not only underlines the government’s acknowledgment of gaming as a significant sector but also paves the way for collaborative efforts to overcome challenges and foster a sustainable and inclusive gaming culture in India.
