Esports — KRAFTON India unveils first cohort of BGMI Rising Stars 2025 to nurture next generation of athletes
Esports — KRAFTON India unveils first cohort of BGMI Rising Stars 2025 to nurture next generation of athletes
KRAFTON India Esports unveiled the inaugural cohort of BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) Rising Stars 2025 program during the opening day of BGIS Grand LAN Finals 2025, where 16 of the nation’s best teams are battling it out for an INR 3.2 crore prize pool, here in Kolkata.
The Rising Stars program is an ambitious initiative to elevate India’s esports ecosystem by nurturing and supporting emerging talent.
It identifies and trains aspiring esports athletes across the country, with the first cohort comprising eight members.
“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, helping them grow into the next big names in the industry,” Karan Pathak, Associate Director- Esports, KRAFTON India, said.
Among the eight members, Saumya Raj and Samihan Kulkarni also qualified for the BGIS Grand Finals.
“For the young athletes, this is not just recognition, it’s validation. To be named a Rising Star and also play in the LAN Finals—this is something I’ve dreamed about,” said Raj.
“This initiative is exactly what Indian esports needed—it makes you believe in yourself a little more.”
Kulkarni echoed the sentiment, adding, “This platform is a game-changer. It makes all the grind worth it, and now I’m just focused on making the most of this opportunity.”
Published on Apr 25, 2025
