India’s esports scene has evolved rapidly over the past decade, producing a new generation of professional gamers who are making their mark on both national and international platforms. In this feature, we share the story of Arjun “Blaze” Mehta, a 23-year-old pro from Delhi who rose from casual gaming in cyber cafés to representing India in global tournaments.
Early Days: From Cafés to Clans
Arjun began his gaming journey playing Counter-Strike 1.6 in local cafés. “It was just for fun at first,” he says. “But the thrill of competing against real people, strategizing on the fly—that hooked me.”
In his teens, he transitioned to DOTA 2 and CS:GO, forming teams with online friends. “We played scrims nightly, often till dawn,” Arjun recalls. “There was no money or fame back then—just pure passion.”
Breakthrough and Turning Point
The big break came in 2020 when Arjun’s team qualified for a regional Valorant tournament hosted by a major Indian gaming platform. “That event opened doors—brand sponsors, invites to closed qualifiers, and most importantly, exposure,” he notes.
By 2023, Blaze had become a regular in India’s Tier-1 Valorant circuit, eventually joining a top esports organization that provided coaching, equipment, and a structured training regimen.
Training, Pressure, and Performance
Contrary to common belief, pro gaming isn’t easy. “We practice 8–10 hours a day,” Arjun explains. “There’s aim training, map strategy, and watching replays. Physical fitness and mental stamina matter too.”
Balancing fame with expectations is another challenge. “You’re always being watched—on stream, in scrims, in matches. One bad play, and the community doesn’t forget. But it sharpens you.”
Advice for Aspiring Gamers
Arjun emphasizes discipline, patience, and self-awareness. “Not everyone will go pro. But if you’re serious, treat it like a career. Build a schedule. Study the game. Record and review your play.”
He also warns against burnout. “Take breaks. Talk to family. Keep your life balanced—it reflects in your gameplay.”
Looking Ahead
With the Asian Games and more global events recognizing esports, Blaze believes India’s time has come. “We have the talent. What we need now is infrastructure—training academies, grassroots leagues, and support from families.”
Arjun’s journey from a casual player to a national star reflects a larger trend: gaming is no longer a hobby for India’s youth—it’s a viable, respected profession. And the story is just beginning.