The landscape of Indian competitive gaming is undergoing a massive shift. For consecutive years, passionate fans have flooded streaming platforms, filled massive arenas, and organized community viewing parties. Consequently, these activities have transformed the country into one of the fastest-growing gaming markets globally. To capitalize on this incredible momentum, Indian conglomerate Reliance is stepping forward with a major initiative ahead of the upcoming global tournament.
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has officially joined forces with JIOBLAST. This joint venture between Reliance’s Jio and premier tournament organizer BLAST aims to launch a brand-new initiative titled India Rising: Road to EWC. This historic project serves as a national competition pathway and cultural festival, bridging the gap between local grassroots gaming talent and the international esports stage.
Establishing a Credible Route to the Global Stage
“India has the second biggest gaming base and one of the most passionate gaming communities in the world,” stated Charlie Cowdrey, CEO of JIOBLAST. “But what has been missing is a clear and credible pathway from India into the biggest global stages.”
The initial iteration of the program will debut with chess as its marquee competitive title. This choice is incredibly natural given India’s status as a global chess powerhouse. Local grandmasters like Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin previously participated in the 2025 event, laying a strong foundation for the community.
While established, titled masters will receive direct invitations to the closed qualifiers, the open registration process is expected to attract over 10,000 grassroots competitors. The ultimate winner of this national circuit will secure a direct ticket to the main chess event. This grand finale takes place from August 11 to August 15, featuring a 21-player field fighting for a massive $1.5 million (~₹14.46 crore) prize pool.
Expanding Beyond Chess Into a Live Gaming Festival
The grand scale of the project goes far beyond the traditional 64 squares. The competitive pathway will eventually culminate in a massive, live esports festival held in Mumbai.
During this offline event, fans can gather to witness the national chess finals unfold live. Additionally, the festival will showcase high-profile exhibition matches in popular titles like VALORANT and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. This structure aims to unite different segments of the Indian gaming community under one roof.
India Rising Project Layout:
• Main Open Tournament: Chess (Over 10,000 grassroots registrants expected)
• Direct Reward: Main event spot with a $1.5 Million prize pool
• Live Mumbai Festival: Chess Finals alongside VALORANT and Mobile Legends showcases
Mohammed Al Nimer, Chief Commercial Officer of the Esports Foundation, emphasized India’s central role in the global gaming ecosystem. He noted that investing in the region is essential for shaping the future of the industry.
Team S8UL Secures Spot in Honor of Kings World Cup
In related competitive news, prominent Indian esports organization S8UL has officially qualified for the Honor of Kings World Cup (KWC). The team secured their spot following an incredibly dominant performance at the King’s Arise India Qualifier.
S8UL entered the high-stakes playoff bracket after winning the regional City Tour in Mumbai. They opened their playoff run with a strong 4-2 victory over Resurrection Imp in the quarterfinals. Following that momentum, they defeated GodLike Esports 4-1 in a best-of-seven semifinal matchup, safely securing a top-two finish.
The successful roster features talented local players alongside key international additions. S8UL will now face off against 20 of the world’s most elite clubs for a share of a massive $3 million (~₹28.5 crore) prize pool. The global tournament is scheduled to run from July 30 to August 8.