Payal Dhare aka Payal Gaming

Born in Umranala, Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, Payal Dhare’s story is one of quiet determination and breaking barriers. Growing up in a modest household, her earliest exposure to gaming came through her cousins who introduced her to mobile games. While her father encouraged her curiosity, her mother was initially apprehensive about her career choice. Over time, Payal’s perseverance, discipline, and growing recognition helped change that perception, turning her mother into one of her biggest supporters. Payal’s journey into gaming began in 2019 when she launched her YouTube channel to stream PUBG Mobile gameplay. What started as an experiment soon evolved into a passion that captured thousands of viewers across India. After the ban on PUBG Mobile, she adapted quickly and continued with Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), GTA V, and other popular titles, proving that her presence went beyond one game. Her natural communication style and authenticity helped her connect with audiences who found her both relatable and aspirational. In 2021, she joined S8UL Gaming, a move that not only expanded her professional horizons but also placed her among India’s leading gaming creators.
Over the years, Payal has achieved milestones that once seemed impossible for a female gamer in India. She became the first Indian woman to win an international gaming award after receiving the “Streamer of the Year” title at the 2024 Mobies Awards. She has also earned several national recognitions, including the Fan Favourite Streamer of the Year and Gaming Creator of the Year (Female) awards. Payal was the only female gamer to participate in the historic roundtable discussion on gaming with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Her YouTube channel has now surpassed 4.49 million subscribers, while her Instagram community exceeds 4 million followers, a testament to the loyal and engaged audience she has built through consistency, authenticity, and a positive approach to content creation. What makes Payal’s story stand out is the cultural and social impact it carries. Coming from a small town, she represents the democratization of opportunity in India’s digital age where location, gender, and social norms no longer limit ambition. By simply being visible and vocal in a male-dominated ecosystem, she has challenged deep-seated stereotypes about women in gaming and has inspired countless young girls to consider careers in esports, streaming, and digital media. Her content balances entertainment with inclusivity. She often plays with fans, collaborates with creators across genres, and maintains a positive, welcoming community environment.