Suniel Shetty Becomes New Owner Of Pune Stallions In Gaming Premier League
The Bollywood veteran expands his business portfolio with entry into competitive eSports arena.
Glendon Moss is a marketer and storyteller with over a decade of experience in digital campaigns, content strategy, writing and performance marketing. Currently heading video content at Incnut Digital, he’s driven brand engagement and revenue for leading D2C brands with campaigns that have earned both commercial impact and international acclaim.
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In a significant development for India’s growing eSports landscape, Bollywood veteran Suniel Shetty has officially become the owner of the Pune Stallions team in the Gaming Entertainment Premier League (GEPL). The announcement was made through the official GEPL Instagram handle, welcoming the actor-entrepreneur to the competitive gaming circuit.
Bollywood Star Enters Esports Arena
The post featuring Shetty announced, “Pune’s got a new boss — and he means business! Welcome Suniel Shetty, owner of Pune Stallions in #GEPL.” The accompanying images show the actor in formal business attire, signaling his serious approach to this new venture.
The GEPL, which stands for Gaming Entertainment Premier League, appears to be focused on cricket-based gaming with hashtags like “#realcricket24” and “#eCricketKaMahaYudh” included in the announcement. Season 2 of the league is currently underway with Shetty’s Pune Stallions being positioned as a major contender with taglines like “Game. Set. Fire” and “#StallionsCharge.”
Expanding Business Portfolio
This isn’t Shetty’s first foray into business ventures outside of acting. The 63-year-old actor has established himself as a successful entrepreneur with investments across various sectors including hospitality, fitness, and real estate. His entry into eSports represents a strategic move into one of the fastest-growing entertainment segments globally.
Shetty, known for his fitness-focused lifestyle even at 63, has consistently expanded his business portfolio over the years. According to sources, he already owns several successful businesses including a chain of restaurants, a production house, and a talent management company.
Shetty’s Sporting Connections
The actor’s connection to sports isn’t new. Shetty has been a fitness enthusiast throughout his career and has previously been associated with various sporting initiatives. He has also maintained close relationships with several sports personalities, most recently showcasing his connection with Indian cricket star KL Rahul.
In a touching Instagram post earlier this year, Shetty referred to Rahul as a “Brother for Ahan, Life partner for Tia and a Son for Mana and Me,” highlighting their close family bond since Rahul married Shetty’s daughter Athiya.
The actor has also been actively involved in cricket-related events, including participating in a charity cricket match called “Neta XI Vs. Abhineta XI” at MCA Cricket Ground, Mumbai, to support the “TB Mukt Bharat” initiative envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Growth Of Esports In India
Shetty’s investment comes at a time when eSports in India is experiencing unprecedented growth. The Indian gaming market, valued at $2.6 billion in 2022, is projected to reach $8.6 billion by 2027, according to industry reports.
Mobile gaming, in particular, has seen explosive growth in India, with cricket-based games gaining massive popularity due to the nation’s passion for the sport. GEPL appears to be capitalizing on this trend with its cricket-focused gaming tournaments.
The league’s format mimics traditional cricket leagues with city-based franchises competing against each other, creating a familiar structure for Indian audiences while introducing them to competitive gaming.
What’s Next For Pune Stallions?
While specific details about the Pune Stallions’ roster and competitive plans remain undisclosed, the team is expected to compete in upcoming GEPL tournaments. The league focuses on “real cricket 24,” suggesting a simulation-based cricket gaming experience.
Industry experts believe that Shetty’s business acumen and entertainment industry connections could help the Pune Stallions develop into a prominent franchise within the league. His experience in managing entertainment properties could prove valuable in building the team’s brand and fan following.
For Shetty, whose recent activities have included promoting sustainable living (as seen in his posts about homegrown greens) and supporting environmental initiatives in his hometown of Mangaluru, this venture represents another dimension to his diverse career that has spanned over three decades in Bollywood.
As the GEPL continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how Shetty’s Pune Stallions perform in the competitive gaming arena and whether his involvement helps elevate the profile of eSports in India.
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