#39: The Future of Poker in India: Where Do We Go From Here?

#39: The Future of Poker in India: Where Do We Go From Here?

Hello Gutshot fam,

Let’s be honest, the last few months have been a wild ride for Indian poker. Between headlines about bans, uncertainty around online platforms, and endless WhatsApp debates in poker groups, it feels like the game we all love is standing at a big crossroads. But here’s the thing: poker has always been about resilience. It’s about taking a tough spot and finding a smart way out. India’s poker scene too might just be gearing up for its next big move.

So, where do we go from here? Let’s peek into a few possibilities.

Remember the thrill of live poker nights?

The shuffle of chips, that silent stare‑down before an all‑in, the banter across the table when someone makes a bold bluff, nothing online quite matches it. With online poker facing speed bumps, maybe this is the comeback moment for live play. From Goa’s buzzing casinos to themed nights at local clubs, the live arena could bring back the original fun of poker: people, stories, and the rush you only get face‑to‑face.

What if we had poker schools?

Think about cricket. Decades ago, it was all gullies and maidans. Today, kids can join cricket academies that make pros out of raw talent. Why can’t poker grow the same way? Imagine walking into a “Poker Academy”, not shady, not underground, but a genuine training hub where you learn bankroll management, table discipline, and even how to keep your cool during a bad beat. With structured coaching, Indian players could build the discipline to not just play but win at the international level.

Lights, Camera, Poker

We already binge-watch gaming streams, cooking reels, and travel vlogs.

So why not poker? Who wouldn’t want to see an Indian pro break down a WSOP hand while sipping cutting chai? We’ve seen glimpses of this with Indian streamers, but the future could be bigger, YouTube channels dedicated to hand reviews, short-form reels that show the drama of an insane bluff, or even docu-series following the journey of Indian grinders chasing glory abroad.

Going global: The international stage 

Let’s not forget, many Indian players are already making waves internationally. Picture more of us flying out to Vegas, Barcelona, or Macau, representing the tricolour in global tournaments. Every deep run by an Indian player doesn’t just earn prize money, it earns respect.

What’s next?

Yes, the bans sting. Yes, the uncertainty is frustrating. But maybe this is our reminder that poker in India is more than logging in at midnight and grinding a Sunday major. It’s about community, resilience, and the thrill of the game. Whether it’s learning in a classroom, playing on a cruise ship, or cheering for an Indian abroad, the story of Indian poker is still unfolding — and you, dear reader, are very much a part of it! 

As poker players, we all know sometimes the flop doesn’t go our way. But give it time, play it smart, and the turn can change everything.

Until next time, keep your chips stacked, your bluffs fearless, and your dreams big.

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