Gaming Passion into Profession: Insights from KRAFTON’s Karan Pathak

DIMAPUR — Karan Mahesh Pathak is an esports professional currently serving as Associate Director – Esports at KRAFTON India. He has a strong record in planning and managing successful tournaments. With a clear understanding of the esports industry, he has contributed to developing and implementing strategies that support the growth of esports and strengthen KRAFTON’s brand presence.

Under his leadership, KRAFTON India has organised major esports events such as the BGMI India Series (BGIS), the Battlegrounds Mobile Pro Series (BMPS), and the India-Korea Invitational for Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). His combination of strategic planning and practical management has positioned him as a key influencer in the esports space.

In this interview with Eastern Mirror, Pathak offers a look into the professional world of esports and shares actionable insights for students from regions like Nagaland—highlighting how talent, consistency, and visibility can open doors in a rapidly growing industry built on passion, discipline, and innovation.

For a student who only sees gaming as a fun activity or hobby, how would you define "esports" as a professional industry?

Gaming as a hobby is a great starting point, but when that passion is channelled into skill, discipline, and competition, it evolves into esports. Esports, or electronic sports, is a rapidly growing global industry where individuals compete in organised tournaments and leagues, backed by brands, sponsors, and audiences. Just like in traditional sports, there are pro players, coaches, analysts, broadcasters, managers, and fans. The scale is enormous, with major tournaments drawing millions of viewers, high prize pools, and global recognition.

In India, games like BGMI have been instrumental in building this ecosystem. Players train rigorously, teams operate with structured support systems, and brands invest heavily in this space. What starts as a fun activity can grow into a high-stakes, high-reward career, with opportunities in gameplay, content creation, strategy, event production, and even entrepreneurship.

Could you describe your role as Associate Director of Esports at KRAFTON? What does a typical day or week look like for you?

At KRAFTON India, my primary responsibility is to build and strengthen the esports ecosystem for our flagship games, especially BGMI. This involves end-to-end planning and execution of tournaments like BGIS, BMPS, India–Korean Invitational, BCL, Campus Tour, etc., right from the formatting to the days of streaming, scouting venues and managing production to onboarding partners and creating long-term engagement strategies that nurture both emerging and professional players. We try to create a correct balance between the underdogs and the existing orgs to provide equal opportunities for both. That being said, I also overlook the third-party tournaments, finance, marketing and BD for esports.

BGMI has a massive following in India. What, in your opinion, makes it a viable esport?

BGMI’s success lies in its perfect combination of accessibility and competitive intensity. With over 230 million downloads, it’s clear that the game has struck a chord with Indian players. But what truly makes it esports-ready is its design, built for team play, reflex-based strategy, and real-time decision-making.

It’s a high-skill, high-engagement game that’s easy to learn but difficult to master, ideal for both casual fun and serious competitive gameplay. KRAFTON continuously refreshes BGMI with updates, collaborations with celebrities and brands, and themed tournaments that sustain excitement and community involvement. Its wide appeal, tournament infrastructure, and large audience base make it a strong foundation for India’s professional esports journey.

What is the realistic path for a talented young player from a place like Nagaland to get noticed by professional teams?

In esports, your performance can speak louder than your location. Thanks to online open qualifiers like BGIS, anyone with a smartphone, stable internet, and dedication can compete on a national stage. KRAFTON ensures these platforms are truly inclusive, and we’ve seen incredible talent emerge from places far from traditional metro hubs.

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In fact, ReDimension Games, part of our Gaming Incubator’s first cohort, is from Nagaland—proving that regional talent is gaining recognition. For aspiring players, the best approach is to participate consistently, build a strong in-game reputation, and create a presence on platforms like YouTube or Instagram to showcase your journey. Teams are always watching; you just need to make your game visible.

What are the most in-demand "off-stage" careers in esports right now?

Beyond the pro players, esports offers a vast range of careers. These include shout casters (esports commentators), analysts who break down gameplay data, event producers who manage on-ground and virtual tournaments, and graphic designers and editors who build brand and content assets.

Other key roles include social media managers, brand partnership leads, talent managers, operations specialists, and business development executives. As esports becomes more professional, each tournament or event resembles a full-scale media production, with specialists driving every element behind the scenes. If you’re creative, analytical, organised, or just passionate about the industry, there’s a space for you here.

What is the importance of local grassroots tournaments?

Grassroots tournaments are where it all begins. They provide emerging players with real competitive exposure and prepare them for professional-level formats. They help build confidence, teamwork, and discipline, qualities necessary for long-term success.

Tournaments like BGIS, which has recorded over 5,00,000+ registrations, have shown us the depth of talent across India. At KRAFTON, we make a conscious effort to host these tournaments in diverse cities, from Hyderabad to Kochi to Kolkata, so we can reach players beyond the metros. These events go beyond just winning; they’re about learning, improving, and finding your place in the esports ecosystem.

How significant is formal education for a student who wants to build a career in this industry?

Education plays a key role in shaping your ability to succeed in esports, whether as a player or in any other role. While the industry might seem unconventional, skills like time management, communication, critical thinking, and teamwork are crucial, and these are often developed through academic learning.

Students can look into gaming-related courses, but even degrees in business, media, design, or computer science can align well with esports careers. More importantly, education provides the foundation to adapt and evolve your career path over time, whether it’s within the gaming industry or adjacent to it. Passion and education aren’t mutually exclusive; they’re complementary.

What role does content creation play in building a personal brand for an aspiring esports professional?

Today, content creation isn’t optional—it’s essential to building your personal brand. Whether you're a competitive player or a coach, streaming gameplay, sharing tutorials, or even vlogging your esports journey builds visibility and trust.

Sponsors, teams, and fans engage not just with performance but with personality. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Loco let you build a following, demonstrate consistency, and share your unique voice. In many cases, content creators become stars in their own right, earning from ad revenue, sponsorships, and collaborations—so it’s both a marketing tool and a viable revenue stream.

How big is the esports industry in India, and what is its projected growth over the next 5–10 years?

India is among the world’s top mobile gaming markets, with 8.45 billion downloads in FY25 alone. The esports player base grew from 1,50,000 in 2021 to over 6,00,000 in 2022, and it’s expected to hit 1.5 million by 2027. According to industry reports, India’s gaming sector is projected to grow to USD 7.5 billion by FY28, with non-RMG segments, including esports, playing a significant role.

We’re also looking at 2,50,000+ job opportunities by 2025, as per EY. From policy support to VC investments and infrastructure growth, the entire ecosystem is expanding. In short, this is a golden decade for Indian esports, and the opportunity is real.

How can students and aspiring professionals’ network within the esports industry?

Start by being visible and vocal in the right spaces. Join gaming-focused Discord servers, follow esports pages and communities on Instagram and YouTube, and participate in online tournaments—regardless of experience level. College gaming fests and LAN events are great ways to meet others who share your interest.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn. Many esports professionals, team managers, and industry leaders are active there. If you have genuine curiosity or admiration for someone’s work, send them a thoughtful message. Networking in esports, like in any other industry, is about relationships—and those take time and consistency to build.

What are the entrepreneurial opportunities within esports? Could a student from Nagaland start something?

Absolutely. Esports is a thriving space for entrepreneurs, especially from underserved regions. A student from Nagaland could launch a regional esports league, start a local team, create training bootcamps, design culturally relevant gaming merchandise, or even run a content channel that covers regional tournaments.

With digital tools and content platforms readily available, your physical location isn’t a barrier anymore. What matters is your vision, consistency, and willingness to solve real community needs. Hyperlocal esports ideas can go national if executed well.

What is the biggest misconception that parents have about a career in esports?

The most common misconception is that gaming is merely a casual distraction or a phase that doesn’t lead anywhere. Esports has evolved into a structured, professional industry with defined roles, career pathways, and strong income potential. Players can earn through prize winnings, team contracts, brand partnerships, and content monetisation on streaming platforms.

What’s more, the industry extends far beyond playing. From game design and event production to marketing and operations, esports is generating real jobs and driving innovation. Like any other profession, it demands focus and hard work—but the rewards are real and growing.

How is technology, particularly AI and VR, expected to shape the future of esports?

AI is already playing a key role in analysing gameplay, enhancing training methods, and even helping in anti-cheat systems. For players, AI tools can personalise coaching and provide real-time performance feedback.

VR, on the other hand, is unlocking new formats where players and fans can experience immersive, 3D arenas. The future of esports could involve playing or watching inside virtual stadiums, and these innovations will open up new career paths, from virtual event designers to AI gameplay analysts and immersive experience creators.

Your single most important message to a young, aspiring student from Nagaland who dreams of making their mark in esports?

You don’t need to be in a big city to chase big dreams. If you’re willing to put in the time, stay focused, and use digital platforms to showcase your skill, there’s nothing stopping you. Esports rewards passion, discipline, and consistency. Your story could inspire the next generation, so don’t just play the game. Shape it.

RAPID INSIGHTS

PC, console, or mobile for fun?

Mobile — India’s biggest playground.

One word to describe Indian esports?

Passionate.

Life philosophy – rusher or camper?

Strategic rusher. Always moving forward, but with intent.