International Women’s Day: Celebrating the Women Leading India’s Gaming Revolution

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For years, gaming has been seen as a predominantly male industry, but this perception is shifting. The latest Lumikai FY24 State of India Interactive Media and Gaming Report, created in collaboration with Google, highlights that women now account for 44% of India's gaming audience-an increase from 41% the previous year.

Further insights from the India Gamer Behavior & Market Insights Report by Niko Partners reveal that female gamers who spend on in-game purchases outpace their male counterparts, investing 8.5% more per month. This not only underlines their growing influence as players but also as key contributors to the gaming economy.

Recognizing this shift, brands and sponsors are actively supporting female gamers, while audiences continue to rally behind them, propelling their popularity on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Through esports, content creation, and community engagement, these women are breaking stereotypes and proving that gaming is for everyone.

On the occasion of International Women's Day, we spotlight some of India's most prominent female gamers who are shaping the industry, inspiring thousands, and paving the way for future generations.

Payal Dhare: Trailblazer in Gaming

Hailing from Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, Payal Dhare-widely known as PayalGaming-has carved a niche for herself as one of India's leading gaming influencers. With a massive following of over 4.2 million on YouTube and 3.9 million on Instagram, she has built a loyal fanbase that rivals some of the most prominent male creators.

Payal's journey began casually, but her passion soon translated into a full-fledged career in gaming and content creation. Her dedication paid off in 2024 when she became the first Indian female gamer to receive an international accolade-the Streamer of the Year award at the Mobies Awards. She also gained recognition at a landmark gaming roundtable discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, further cementing her status as an industry pioneer.

Kaashvi Hiranandani: From Finance to Gaming Fame

Kaashvi Hiranandani, popularly known as KaashPlays, took an unconventional path into the gaming world. A finance professional in Singapore, she made the bold decision to quit her job during the pandemic to pursue gaming full-time. Today, with 1.8 million Instagram followers and 1.65 million YouTube subscribers, she has established herself as one of India's top gaming influencers.

Beyond live streaming, Kaashvi is pushing creative boundaries within gaming content. Her recently launched show, Kaash We Match, combines gaming with entertainment, showcasing how female creators are bringing fresh and innovative ideas to the industry.

Krutika Ojha: Competitive Gamer-Turned-Creator

Krutika Ojha, known as KrutikaPlays, found her passion for gaming early, playing WWE and Counter Strike 1.6 with her brother. She gained prominence in the gaming community as the only female contestant in the PUBG Mobile India Series (PMIS) 2020, a major esports tournament in India.

Although she started with competitive gaming, Krutika later transitioned into content creation, where her engaging personality and Battlegrounds Mobile India streams helped her amass 865,000 YouTube subscribers. Through a mix of gameplay, challenges, and collaborations, she continues to inspire aspiring female gamers, proving that high-level gaming isn't just a male domain.

Saloni Kandalgaonkar: Blending Gaming and Glamour

Saloni Kandalgaonkar, better known as Mili kya Mili, is a rising star in the Indian gaming scene. As part of S8UL Esports, her unique content-combining humor with engaging gameplay-has garnered her 210,000 Instagram followers and 322,000 YouTube subscribers.

Saloni's engaging live streams span multiple games, and her growing fanbase is a testament to the diverse representation emerging in the gaming industry. Her journey underscores how gaming is evolving to include more voices and talents from all walks of life.

Monica Jeph: The Versatile Multi-Game Streamer

Jaipur-based Monica Jeph, also known as Sherlock, started her gaming journey in 2019 and has since built a strong presence in the community. Known for her versatility, she plays a range of games, including Valorant, Battlegrounds Mobile India, Deceit, and Rocket League.

Her engaging style and ability to switch between games have made her a favorite among viewers, proving that adaptability is a key strength in gaming.

Ankkita Chauhan: A Veteran in Gaming Content

Ankkita Chauhan, known as AnkkitaC, is a seasoned gamer and content creator from Mumbai. As part of 8Bit Creatives, she has built a career that spans streaming, content creation, and influencer marketing.

What sets Ankkita apart is the deep connection she shares with her audience. Her family, especially her mother, plays an active role in her gaming journey, often appearing in her videos. This personal touch has helped her cultivate a loyal following over the years. Playing a mix of games, from Valorant to Grand Theft Auto V, Ankkita continues to push boundaries and inspire a new wave of female gamers.

A New Era for Women in Indian Gaming

As we celebrate International Women's Day, these six women represent a shift toward inclusivity and recognition in India's gaming landscape. Their journeys highlight that talent, creativity, and perseverance matter far more than gender. With more female gamers stepping into the spotlight, the future of Indian gaming is set to be more diverse and dynamic than ever.