Top Indian Poker Pros You Should Know
Poker, once viewed with skepticism in India, has evolved into a competitive mind sport, with Indian poker now embraced by millions across the country. With the rise of online platforms, international tournaments, and growing recognition of poker as a game of skill, Indian players have increasingly made their mark on the global stage. These players have not only earned fame and fortune but have also inspired a new generation of poker and Rummy games enthusiast. Here’s a look at the top Indian poker pros you should know—pioneers, rising stars, and game-changers in the world of poker.
1. Aditya Agarwal: The Godfather of Indian Poker
When discussing Indian poker legends, Aditya Agarwal’s name inevitably tops the list. A seasoned pro with an extensive career in both online and live tournaments, Aditya has been instrumental in popularizing poker in India. He began his journey while studying in the U.S. and quickly made a name for himself on major online poker sites.
His most notable accomplishment includes multiple deep runs in the World Series of Poker (WSOP), where he has cashed more than 30 times. Aditya’s analytical gameplay, consistency, and leadership have earned him immense respect globally, even among top Teen Patti stars. He was also the first Indian to become a member of Team PokerStars Pro, a testament to his international reputation.
2. Nikita Luther: The WSOP Bracelet Winner
Nikita Luther is not just one of the top Indian poker pros—she’s a trailblazer. In 2018, she made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a WSOP bracelet, partnering with German pro Giuseppe Pantaleo in the Tag Team Event.
With her charismatic presence and calm table demeanor, Nikita has broken stereotypes about women in poker. She’s consistently ranked among the top female players in India and has represented the country in multiple international tournaments. Beyond her playing career, she actively works to bring more inclusivity to the poker space for women and newcomers.
3. Muskan Sethi: India’s Poker Ambassador
Muskan Sethi is more than a poker player—she’s a symbol of determination and purpose in the world of Indian poker. Her passion for poker led her to be recognized by the Government of India, where she received the “First Ladies Award” for being one of the first prominent Indian women poker players.
Muskan’s journey includes playing in major international tournaments, like the WSOP and European Poker Tour (EPT), and representing Team PokerStars India. Apart from her tournament accolades, she’s worked tirelessly to promote poker as a skill-based game and to empower women in the industry. Her balanced approach, combining glamour and grit, makes her a role model for aspiring players.
4. Kunal Patni: The Banker Turned Poker Star
A former investment banker, Kunal Patni’s entry into Indian poker was not by chance—it was a well-calculated move. He gained attention after finishing 2nd in the World Poker Tour (WPT) Berlin DeepStack, earning a massive payout and global recognition.
Kunal is known for his disciplined, methodical style and is a regular name in high-stakes live tournaments and on online poker sites. As a brand ambassador for various platforms over the years, including Adda52, he’s helped mentor younger players and contributed to poker’s growing popularity in India.
5. Abhinav Iyer: WSOP Gold Bracelet Winner
In 2019, Abhinav Iyer made headlines by winning India’s first-ever solo WSOP gold bracelet in Las Vegas. He conquered a massive field in the $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em event and brought home not just the gold but over $565,000 in winnings.
What makes Abhinav special is his mix of intuition and structured thinking. A regular on both Indian and international circuits, he continues to perform well, making consistent final tables and deep runs—a true guide to poker success. His WSOP victory solidified India’s presence on the global poker map.
6. Ashish Ahuja: The Online Grinder
Ashish Ahuja has earned a reputation as one of India’s most prolific online poker players. With numerous titles and final table appearances across platforms like PokerBaazi, Spartan Poker, and Adda52, Ashish is known for his aggressive yet calculated approach to the game.
He also performs well in live settings, with multiple deep finishes in prestigious tournaments. Ashish’s commitment to continuous improvement and dedication to studying the game make him a force to watch, especially in high-stakes tournaments.
7. Sahil Agarwal: The Consistent Performer
Sahil Agarwal may not always make flashy headlines, but within poker circles, he’s known for his deep understanding of game theory and steady performance. A staple name in Indian High Roller tournaments, Sahil’s ability to adapt to various formats—from No-Limit Hold’em to Pot Limit Omaha—gives him an edge.
He’s also a respected poker coach and has helped train numerous successful players through his association with coaching platforms. His analytical prowess makes him one of the most technically sound players in India.
8. Raghav Bansal: The First Indian to Final Table a High Roller Event
Raghav Bansal is a significant figure in Indian poker history. He became the first Indian to final table a High Roller event at the European Poker Tour (EPT) Monte Carlo, finishing second and taking home nearly €470,000.
His breakthrough opened doors for Indian players looking to enter the European and global high-stakes scenes. Raghav continues to impress with his tournament IQ and balanced aggression, frequently competing on both live and online circuits.
9. Sharad Rao: The Tournament Specialist
Sharad Rao is one of the few Indian players who have consistently performed in online and live tournaments alike. A former engineer, Sharad made the switch to poker full-time and has enjoyed remarkable success, including multiple titles in India’s biggest online series.
He also served as a mentor and coach, making poker more accessible to beginners. With a mix of logical thinking and fearless play, Sharad has carved out a space for himself among India’s elite poker players.
10. Amit Jain: The Mumbai Maverick
Amit Jain, popularly known as “BBlackLegend” in online circles, is a long-time veteran of Indian poker. He has a number of significant live cashes and has played across the globe, from Macau to Las Vegas. Known for his versatility and calm demeanor, Amit is respected by peers for his poker acumen and strategic foresight.
He is also one of the founders of India Poker Championship (IPC), which helped shape the competitive poker landscape in India. His dual role as both player and entrepreneur makes him one of the most influential figures in the Indian poker industry.
The Future of Indian Poker
The rise of these poker professionals is just the beginning. With a growing ecosystem of Indian poker apps, online poker sites, and local tournaments, the future is bright. India’s youth are taking notice of these icons, not just for their winnings but for the discipline, strategy, and mindset they bring to the game.
Indian players are now regulars at international tables, and many are eyeing the prestigious WSOP Main Event title. With the right support and continued acceptance of poker as a game of skill, Indian online gaming will soon see a player conquer the global poker arena.
Final Thoughts
From Aditya Agarwal’s legendary consistency to Nikita Luther’s historic bracelet win, each of these poker pros has contributed significantly to India’s rising reputation in the poker world. They are not just players—they are ambassadors of the Indian poker movement that continues to grow. Whether you’re a fan, a casual player, or someone aiming to go pro, learning about these champions can offer both inspiration and insight into what it takes to succeed at the highest level of poker.
