Orangutan Esports: Swinging to the Pinnacle of Competitive Gaming

Introduction

Greetings, Questers!

Today, we embark on an exploration of Orangutan Esports, one of India's youngest yet rapidly ascending esports organizations. Established in May 2021, Orangutan has swiftly made its mark across multiple gaming titles, showcasing an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

Let's delve into their origins, achievements, key players, and future aspirations.

Origins & Early Days

Founded in May 2021 by Yash Bhanushali and Jai Shah, Orangutan emerged from a collective of passionate dreamers aiming to revolutionize the Indian esports landscape. Their vision was to create an organization that not only competes at the highest levels but also fosters a community where talent thrives.

Rise to Prominence

Despite being a relatively new entrant, Orangutan's strategic approach and dedication have propelled them to prominence in the esports arena. By assembling competitive rosters in titles like Free Fire, BGMI, VALORANT, and Pokémon Unite, they have demonstrated versatility and a keen eye for talent.

Major Achievements

Orangutan's journey is adorned with significant milestones:

• BGMI: They clinched the championship at the Penta BGMI Invitational in May 2022, securing a ₹10 lakh cash prize. Additionally, they finished as runners-up at the BGMI Showdown 2022, the game's first official LAN tournament organized by Krafton, earning a ₹2.5 lakh cash prize. 
• Free Fire: Through their team Orangutan Elite, they have maintained a strong presence in the Free Fire competitive scene, participating in various tournaments and showcasing consistent performances. 
• VALORANT: After a brief hiatus, Orangutan announced their return to VALORANT in 2024 with a new six-man roster, signaling their renewed commitment to the title. 

Key Players & Influencers

Orangutan's success is bolstered by a roster of talented individuals:

• BGMI Roster: Players like Ashish "Ash" Bhatnagar, Manoj "Believe" Kumar, Shubham "Drigger" Singh Quiriyal, Ankit "AK" Shukla, and Faraz "WizzGOD" Khan have been pivotal in their BGMI endeavors.
• Free Fire Roster: The Orangutan Elite team comprises seasoned players such as Lokesh "PAHADI" Karakoti, Ajay "JONTY" Kumar Banga, Naitik "OLDMONK" Khoshto, Sankalp "Duker" Gupta, and Jayesh "MrJay" Yadav, each bringing unique skills to the fore. 

• VALORANT Roster: The revamped 2024 lineup includes emerging talents, reflecting Orangutan's focus on nurturing new players. 

Challenges & Comebacks

Navigating the competitive esports landscape comes with its challenges. Orangutan faced hurdles such as game bans and roster changes but showcased resilience by adapting and strategizing effectively. Their ability to bounce back, especially with their re-entry into VALORANT, underscores their commitment to growth and excellence. 

Current Status & Future Plans

As of 2025, Orangutan continues to solidify its position in the esports domain:

• Training Facility: They unveiled "The Forest," a 15,000 sq. ft., four-story training facility equipped with state-of-the-art technology, serving as a hub for their esports athletes and content creators.
• Talent Development: Orangutan remains committed to scouting and nurturing talent, aiming to expand their reach in both national and international arenas.
• Community Engagement: Through content creation and interactive events, they strive to foster a vibrant gaming community, inspiring the next generation of gamers.

Closing Thoughts 

Orangutan Esports exemplifies the spirit of innovation, resilience, and passion. Their rapid ascent in the Indian esports scene serves as an inspiration to aspiring gamers and organizations alike.

Questers, what are your thoughts on Orangutan's journey?

Do you foresee them reaching greater heights in the coming years?

Share your insights and let's continue to celebrate the evolution of esports in India! 🚀