National Poker Series (NPS) India: The "Olympics of Indian Poker" Set to Make History in 2025
The National Poker Series (NPS) India, often referred to as the "Olympics of Indian Poker," is an iconic event that has transformed the poker landscape in the country. As it gears up for its groundbreaking 5th edition in March 2025, the stage is set for a monumental tournament series featuring an astonishing ₹100 Crore prize pool. This ambitious prize fund not only makes NPS 2025 the largest poker event in Indian history, but it also promises thrills and challenges that will captivate poker enthusiasts across the nation.
A Vision for Poker in India
Navkiran Singh, the Founder and CEO of Baazi Games, is at the forefront of this movement. He succinctly describes NPS as more than a mere competition; it embodies recognition of poker as a serious, skill-based mind sport in India. According to Singh, "Each edition is designed to emphasize strategy, precision, and mental endurance." The NPS series not only empowers poker players to refine their skills but also promotes the growth of poker as a legitimate sport nationwide. Singh is undoubtedly excited about the event, stating, "We aim to deliver an unparalleled experience at PokerBaazi to empower the talent of poker players across India.”
Building on Past Success
The NPS has steadily evolved since its inception in 2021, establishing itself as a game-changer within the Indian poker community. The 2024 edition saw remarkable success, boasting over 2.25 Lakh entries and a substantial prize pool of ₹62.5 Crore. With the upcoming 2025 edition, the expectations are even higher, promising to deliver an even more competitive atmosphere filled with exceptional poker talent.
The NPS has made significant strides over the past years:
- Total Entries: Over 5.33 Lakh entries across four editions
- Tournaments Hosted: 404 tournaments held
- Medals Awarded: A total of 1,221 medals given to top performers
This impressive track record underlines the NPS’s role as a premier platform for poker in India, drawing players of varying skill levels—from amateurs to seasoned professionals—to compete on a grand stage.
A Celebration of Indian Poker
The NPS is not just about competition; it is a celebration of the growing love for poker in India. The event attracts both seasoned pros and novices, providing everyone a chance to showcase their skills. The excitement isn’t just within the player circles; it resonates through the audience, creating a vibrant atmosphere where the love for the game thrives.
Past Champions: Stories That Inspire
The NPS has a proud legacy of champions who have not only won impressive sums but have also become role models for aspiring players. The past main event winners illustrate the talent and dedication within the Indian poker community:
- Mohammad Azhar (2021): The inaugural champion defeated a field of 5,947 players to claim ₹50.13 Lakhs. His victory remains etched in Indian poker history.
- Chirag Sodha (2022): Dominating a field of 6,202 players, Sodha earned ₹44.84 Lakhs and clinched the NPS Gold Medal, with a thrilling final table held at the PokerBaazi LIVE poker room in Goa.
- Prateek Bhartia (2023): Bhartia emerged victorious against 5,849 players, taking home ₹30.93 Lakhs and his first NPS Gold Medal.
- Anshul Raj (2024): Raj clinched victory in a field of 10,121 players, earning ₹41.60 Lakhs and the coveted Gold Medal.
These champions exemplify the potential for success within the realm of Indian poker and serve as an inspiration for many.
Regional Rivalries and Intense Competition
A unique aspect of the NPS is the spirited rivalry between regional players. In 2024, Maharashtra led the medal count with over 100 medals, followed closely by Delhi with 83 medals. This regional competition adds an exciting dimension to the tournament, as players fight not only for personal glory but also to elevate their region’s prestige.
NPS India 2025: Bigger and Better Than Ever!
Following the resounding success of NPS 2024, Deepak Singh topped the Podium Leaderboard, while Aman Parakh garnered top honours on the Series Leaderboard. The NPS has not only set benchmarks of success but also made strides toward inclusivity, with Ishita Arora becoming the first-ever female NPS Gold Medalist.
As the preparations for NPS 2025 unfold, players and fans can expect high-stakes tournaments, bigger rewards, and even fiercer competition. This edition is anticipated to surpass the excitement and records set in previous years and redefine the standards for poker in India.
About National Poker Series India
The National Poker Series (NPS) India is the pinnacle of poker championships in the country. With an impressive distribution of over ₹135 Crore in prize money and more than 1,200 medals awarded, the NPS embodies India’s largest and most prestigious poker tournament series. The detailed schedule for NPS 2025 will be released soon, and anticipation for this remarkable event is already building across the gaming community.
As we look forward to March 2025, the National Poker Series promises to be an unforgettable celebration of skill, strategy, and passion for poker in India. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding enthusiast, this is the tournament you don’t want to miss!
