In a stunning display of skill, leadership, and resilience, Saumya Raj, the recently announced Rising Star, led Team Versatile to a remarkable victory at the BGIS Grand LAN Final, held in Kolkata.
Entering the final day of competition in third position, Team Versatile needed a strong start to stay in contention. They did exactly that, clinching a Chicken Dinner in the very first match of the day.
Maintaining steady momentum throughout all games on Day 3, they showcased clinical precision and teamwork. In the final game, Team Versatile secured 8 takedown points and 169, sealing their place at the top of the leaderboard and claiming the BGIS Grand LAN Finals 2025 trophy.
As the In-Game Leader (IGL), Saumya Raj’s tactical brilliance and composure under pressure were on full display, guiding his teammates Harsh Rao, Rudra Rajeev Banswani, Divyansh, Shiven Pawar and Phalen to a consistent and dominant performance throughout the event. The team was also awarded the cash prize of INR 67,60,000.
Hero Xtreme Godlike finished in second place, while Iqoo Orangutan took home the third position after an intense weekend of action-packed matches.
Saumya Raj’s triumph is a significant moment not just for him and his team, but also for the inaugural batch of Krafton India’s BGMI Rising Stars Program. Launched to nurture the next generation of esports professionals, the program is designed as a comprehensive development platform, helping young talents grow, evolve, and build mainstream gaming careers.
An elated Saumya Raj reflected on his victory, stating, “Winning the BGIS Grand LAN Finals 2025 is a dream come true. Being a part of the Rising Star Program has given me the support and belief to push my limits, and today’s victory is a testament to the hard work of my teammates and me. We stayed focused, trusted our strategies, and gave it our all. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and excited for what lies ahead.”
The first cohort of Rising Stars includes Shiraj Thapa, Kunal Bhaskar, Thongzalaikam Haokip, Paridhi Gupta, Oleed F, Samihan Kulkarni, Saumya Raj, and Anand Aman — each selected for their outstanding gaming potential and ability to inspire a new generation of gamers across India.
Speaking on the occasion, Karan Pathak, Associate Director – Esports, KRAFTON India, said, “The BGIS Grand LAN Finals 2025 have truly highlighted the exceptional talent that exists within India’s esports community. Saumya Raj’s leadership and Team Versatile’s victory epitomize the spirit of dedication and excellence we aim to foster through the Rising Stars Program.”
The BGIS Grand LAN Finals 2025 will be remembered not just for the intense competition, but also as a defining moment for India’s young and rising esports talents, who are ready to take the world stage by storm.
