An insightful interview about empowering Growth and Collaboration, Insights from India's Gaming Industry Pioneer Rajesh Rao (Convener, IGDC).
Tune in for an amazing exclusive interview of Mr Rajesh Rao, The Chairman of IGDC '23.
In a recent interview, we had the privilege of engaging in a conversation with Mr Rajesh Rao, the founder of Dhruva Interactive and the driving force behind the India Game Developer Conference (IGDC). He has been a central figure in the dynamic evolution of India's gaming industry. whose visionary approach has shaped the trajectory of the Indian gaming industry. With over 15 years of experience orchestrating successful gaming conferences, this individual has been instrumental in fostering a culture of learning and collaboration within the gaming community. The interview shed light on the core objectives that have guided the evolution of the industry and underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in driving its growth.
When asked about the primary objectives behind the gaming conference, Mr Rao emphasized the need to facilitate continuous learning and skill enhancement within the rapidly evolving gaming landscape. He noted that the gaming industry is characterized by rapid technological advancements and evolving design trends, emphasizing the critical importance of staying updated to remain relevant in the industry. Recognizing the industry's dynamic nature, he underscored the importance of knowledge sharing and continuous learning to prevent obsolescence.
Delving deeper into the conference's purpose, Mr Rao highlighted the initiative's role in creating valuable business opportunities for developers. The implementation of the Investor-Publisher Connect platform was instrumental in providing emerging studios with exposure to potential investors and publishers, leading to the formation of numerous successful start-ups. Emphasizing the significance of networking and knowledge exchange, he highlighted the role of the conference in fostering collaborative relationships within the gaming community.
Mr Rajesh Rao’s commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment within the industry was a pivotal factor in the conference's success. By encouraging industry professionals to take ownership of various aspects of the conference, he facilitated a decentralized and volunteer-driven approach to event management. This approach not only attracted top talent but also fostered a sense of contribution and ownership among the participants.
He emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making and collaborative problem-solving, highlighting the conference's commitment to continuous improvement. Post-conference evaluations and strategic planning sessions were identified as essential components in identifying areas for enhancement and implementing necessary changes to address industry challenges effectively.
Looking ahead, Mr Rao outlined a comprehensive plan to address the industry's talent needs. Initiatives, such as city meetups, hackathons in colleges, and collaborations with educational institutions, were emphasized as crucial steps in nurturing and expanding the talent pool within the Indian gaming ecosystem. He believes that these initiatives will help in fostering long-term growth and sustainability within the industry.
The interview highlighted the remarkable success of this year's conference, which witnessed a significant increase in the participation of venture capitalists and publishers. With an impressive turnout of 67 VCs and publishers and over 1,800 productive meetings, the conference demonstrated its effectiveness in fostering meaningful connections and facilitating valuable business opportunities for both established organizations and emerging start-ups.
In conclusion, the interview served as a testament to the transformative impact of collaborative initiatives and the pivotal role of knowledge-sharing in propelling the Indian gaming industry forward. With a clear focus on fostering innovation, nurturing talent, and enabling strategic partnerships, Mr Rao’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Indian gaming ecosystem into a thriving hub of creativity and collaboration. Now, Mr Rajesh Rao would pass on the baton to Sridhar Muppidi, who will take over as the Convener from next year, which would be the IGDC 2024.