Esports Players Turn Millionaires Amid India’s Online Gaming Boom

Esports is emerging as a flourishing industry in the online realm, witnessing a surge in popularity and financial success for numerous young players who are now raking in substantial earnings every month.

Over the past five years, India’s online gaming sector has experienced significant growth, fueled by technological advancements and increased visibility through social media and YouTube. A multitude of Esports players in India has achieved millionaire status, attributing their success to a combination of high subscriber counts and thriving streaming careers.

These players not only rely on online streaming and YouTube ad revenue but also earn substantial amounts by participating in online gaming tournaments. Building teams and securing brand collaborations contribute significantly to their wealth, capitalizing on the expanding viewership.

According to data from Moneycontrol, Esports players can earn monthly figures ranging from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2 lakh based on their stature. Those who engage in online game streaming can amass annual earnings of approximately ₹8-9 crores. The primary sources of revenue for these content creators are brand deals and ad revenue on streaming platforms.

However, the earnings of many content creators faced setbacks in 2022 when the Indian government imposed a ban on Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) and Free Fire. Despite such challenges, it is anticipated that the income of Esports players and content creators will continue to grow in the years ahead, driven by market expansion.

Noteworthy figures in the Indian Esports scene include Tanmay Singh, a YouTube content creator renowned for BGMI and Valorant gameplays, and Naman Mathur, popularly known as Mortal, a top-subscribed gaming influencer with expertise in BGMI, Valorant, and GTA. Jonathan Amaral, aka Jonathan Gaming, is celebrated as one of the most influential BGMI players in India, boasting international tournament victories. TechnoGamerz, the most followed Esports player and online gaming influencer in India, has amassed over 37 million subscribers, showcasing expertise in games like Call of Duty, Minecraft, Resident Evil, and Cyberpunk 2077.