I have spent ten years in the esports industry, I am currently the co-founder and chief executive officer of AFK Gaming. AFK Gaming is a sincere attempt to build the go-to destination for the world’s quality esports content.

I studied commerce and finance at the HR College of Commerce in Mumbai, following which I obtained a degree in master of commerce from the University of Mumbai. I also attended summer school at the London School and studied business analysis and valuations. Esports is not something I anticipated following as a professional path while studying. I started my professional career as a research analyst at Credit Analysis and Research Limited.

I am passionate about and play Dota 2, a couple of hours a week.

The biggest difference between online and offline gaming is the ability to compete and/or interact with others. Online sports enable a player to interact and play with people across boundaries/gender/age.

After spending ten years in the industry I believe, the benefits of online skill-based gaming far outweigh the cons. Addiction, lethargy and other negative effects associated with online skill-based gaming merit a deeper study focused on an individual’s personality, lifestyle and environment.

Right now in India, the biggest issue that comes to my mind is the misuse of personal data for targeted advertising and sales calls without my consent.

Skill games need to be evaluated based on the physical and intellectual ability required to play a game. Games that include elements of both should be treated and regulated differently.