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Loco teams up with Upthrust Esports for the ‘Challengers Showdown’
Mumbai: Loco, the world’s leading independent esports and live streaming platform, today announced its partnership with Upthrust Esports for the ‘Challengers Showdown’. This collaboration aims to empower gamers of all backgrounds and promote inclusivity within the Indian esports community.
Set to captivate gaming enthusiasts from 20 June to 2 July, the Upthrust Esports Challengers Showdown, powered by Loco, will feature a prize pool of Rs 10,00,000. The teams participating in the 1000 open slots, will battle it out to occupy the four spots for qualifying teams in the semi-finals. Additionally, featuring 20 invited teams in the semi-finals, the ‘Challengers Showdown’ guarantees an awe-inspiring display of talent, strategy, and passion. This 10-day tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of the finest gaming talent, offering an unparalleled experience for participants and viewers alike.
What truly sets this event apart is Loco’s unwavering commitment to equal opportunities for players of all skill levels. With a remarkable 1000 open slots available, this tournament is a testament to Loco’s mission of empowering gamers everywhere. Whether you’re an aspiring newcomer or a seasoned pro, this is your chance to shine on the grand stage.
Loco users will be immersed in a truly unrivaled entertainment experience, enabling them to stream the event in real-time without any lag. Every heart-pounding moment of the ‘Challengers Showdown’ will be brought to life.
“We are excited to host the Challengers Showdown on Loco,” said Loco founder Ashwin Suresh. “Our platform is dedicated to leveling the playing field and giving gamers, regardless of their background, an opportunity to showcase their skills. With Loco, the exhilaration of esports becomes an immersive and inclusive experience.”
Commenting on the partnership, Upthrust Esports founder Kartik Sabherwal said, “We are thrilled to announce Loco as our powered by and streaming partner for this event. Upthrust and Loco have had a long-standing association over the years. This time our collaboration aims to bring unparalleled esports action not just for BGMI but for the whole gaming community, combining the expertise of both Upthrust and Loco to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience. We both will be working for the growth of esports in India together, collectively.”
Which underdog team will rise to the occasion? To catch all the action unfold at the Esports Challengers Showdown, visit Upthrust’s live channel on Loco.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
