If you were a gamer, gaming influencer, streamer or a video game enthusiast, you were probably at the fifth edition finale of the Battlegrounds Mobile India Series (BGIS) 2026 in Chennai, where the atmosphere was electric, and so was the audience.

The tournament featured players from beginners to professionals from across India playing Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) in teams of four. The tournament started with 70,000 teams, with semi-finals and core tournaments, narrowing down its players. With music, fireworks and non-stop energy, the three-day finale was conducted from March 27 to 29 at the Chennai Trade Centre with 16 teams and players from all over India, along with live streaming.

Participants at the Battlegrounds Mobile India Series (BGIS) 2026
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SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Team iQOO Soul emerged victorious taking home prizes worth ₹1 crore , with Team Genesis Esports and Team Orangutan crowned the runners-up and second runners-up, respectively, bringing an end to the two-and-a-half month-long tournament. The event was conducted by Krafton India, a national gaming organisation. .

“Lifting the trophy was emotional, we pushed through with our fans’ support, resetting after every match and trusting each other to make it this far,” said Nakul Sharma, from Team iQOO Soul.

The growth of esports tournaments has also seen a rise in the fanbase with the increasing viewers and players. With more influencers and streamers promoting gaming as more than just a hobby, it is being seen as a potential growth industry for the makers and players alike.

“The numbers prove that gaming interest is alive, growing, and still in its early stages despite the stigma. We’re not just rooting for teams, we’re rooting for gaming to become India’s next big phenomenon.” said Ayush Shukla, an influencer.

With open tournaments that welcome players of all skill level, it encourages the gaming community of India to participate and try out their skills. “Every year, we aim to discover young talent and give them a platform where learning, competition, and opportunity can turn gaming into a real career path,” said Karan Pathak, associate director, esports, Krafton India.

“Gaming has real career potential, it takes time, but the opportunities are expanding, and it’s exciting to see where it’s headed. It is no longer just limited to your phones or devices, but broadening into bigger and more opportunities”, said Pradeep Kumar, an attendee of the event.

Tournaments like the Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2026 underscore how the esports community has moved beyond niche circles, evolving into a dynamic ecosystem.