Garena Free Fire returns to India with Rs 1 crore tournament cup after 3-year ban
's popular battle royale battle game
Free Fire
is officially returning to India after a gap of three years with a tournament cup. The free-to-play game was banned in the country in 2022 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on security grounds.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Announcing the
Free Fire Max Tournament Cup
, the company shared an Instagram post, writing 'India, time to squad up! 🔥The heat is rising, the battlefield is set!
TEZ FFMIC
is coming soon.' TEZ FFMIC here stands for TEZ Free Fire Max India Cup, which will run from July 13 to September 28 and carry a prize pool of Rs 1 crore. This marks Garena's biggest move in India since the ban and signals a major push into the country's fast-growing gaming market.
How social media reacted to the return of Free Fire
The tournament announcement has been received by social media users with enthusiasm. 'Ache Din ki suruaat Ho gyiii,' wrote one user. A second user said 'it's been so long'. 'Abhi maza aiyega na bidu,' said a third.
Industry leaders welcome the move
Industry experts say the return of Free Fire could be a turning point for mobile esports in India. Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming said 'The return of Free Fire competitive through the Free Fire MAX India Cup 2025 is a pivotal moment for mobile esports in India.
India thrives on accessibility and Free Fire's ability to run smoothly across a broad spectrum of devices makes it especially relevant for gamers nationwide.'
Rathee also noted that having more choices benefits the gaming community. 'More options for Indian gamers and esports athletes are always a good thing... Free Fire has a loyal audience, just as BGMI does... both titles can and will coexist,' he said.
Animesh Agarwal from S8UL also praised the game's return.
'It has always connected deeply with the mobile-first audience in India, and its comeback will undoubtedly spark new energy in the competitive scene,' he said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
'Once he is done playing….': Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift discuss future plans and hint at marriage down the line
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift discuss marriage plans (Image via Instagram) Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are no longer keeping things under wraps. From NFL fields to social media timelines, their relationship is stepping into the spotlight. With public displays of affection and private talks about the future, the couple is proving their love story is built to last. Travis Kelce goes public with Taylor Swift as couple signals serious long-term commitment Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift aren't just surviving the spotlight—they're thriving in it. The NFL superstar and global pop icon, who began dating in 2023, are showing fans and close friends alike that this isn't just a fling. According to a source close to the couple, 'They're both all in.' While they've generally kept their relationship somewhat private, Kelce recently shifted gears with a surprising Instagram post. For the first time ever, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end shared a series of offseason photos, prominently featuring Swift in seven of them. The post wasn't lost on fans—one even called it 'the best hard launch Instagram has ever seen.' Travis Kelce's Instagram post signals deep commitment Though it may have looked casual, insiders reveal Kelce's move was anything but. 'Travis posting Taylor on his Instagram for the first time wasn't random, it was intentional,' a source told People. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Flexible Program BITS Pilani Digital Apply Now Undo 'They've been private in their own way, but this was his way of showing how serious things have become.' The couple is reportedly discussing long-term plans, though there's no rush. 'There's no pressure between them, but they're very aligned on where things are going,' the source added. 'He makes her feel safe and supported and she brings so much joy into his life. They're really happy.' Engagement rumors swirl, but marriage talks are tied to NFL retirement Speculation reached a fever pitch after fans spotted what they thought was an engagement ring in Kelce's phone lock screen photo. But the reality? Swift was showing off Kelce's three Super Bowl rings. Still, insiders suggest marriage is inevitable—just not immediate. 'Once he is done playing [football], the conversation will be front and center,' said a Daily Mail source. Swift's parents are reportedly on board, ready to welcome Kelce into the family. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, Swift will have a more relaxed schedule and plans to cheer him on more consistently. Also Read: Why Travis Kelce needed Taylor Swift's approval before posting photos—is he too controlled or just respectful? FAQs 1. Did Travis Kelce post Taylor Swift on Instagram for the first time? Yes, and insiders say it was a purposeful show of commitment. 2. Are Taylor and Travis discussing marriage? Yes, but serious talks are expected once Kelce retires from the NFL. 3. Will Taylor Swift attend more Chiefs games this season? Yes, her touring schedule is lighter, giving her more time to support Kelce. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
New York Knicks remain interested in free agent Ben Simmons as teams await his final decision in free agency
New York Knicks are interested in Ben Simmons (Image via Instagram / @bensimmons) According to reports, the New York Knicks are still considering Ben Simmons. The Knicks are still in the running for guard/forward Ben Simmons, a free agent, according to Ian Begley of SNY. He recently claimed that New York's overall salary cap of $207.8 million will reportedly allow the team to sign a rookie free agent and a veteran to a minimum contract. New York Knicks eye Ben Simmons for final roster spot amid limited free agency options This time of year, there aren't many storylines in the NBA summer. However, the NBA front offices are still working to improve the roster. The coaching staff of the New York Knicks has already undergone significant changes. Ian Begley of SNY recently reported that three-time All-Star Ben Simmons, who is still unsigned in free agency, is now getting a lot of interest from the New York Knicks. After playing for the Philadelphia 76ers for four seasons, the Brooklyn Nets for three, and the Los Angeles Clippers for a half-year, he is making his first foray into free agency. Stating the same, Ian Begley said: 'Ben Simmons is certainly a candidate for the Knicks' final roster spot. As of earlier this week, New York continued to show strong interest in signing Simmons as teams in on Simmons await his decision. He's garnered interest from several teams around the league. The Knicks also have maintained interest in Landry Shamet for that final roster spot..' Ben Simmons is looking for a team (Image via Instagram / @bensimmons) As per the same report, the competing teams are awaiting his decision. Ben Simmons' addition to the New York Knicks has some advantages. He is quite large and has significant defensive activity. Despite his offensive shortcomings, he is still a skilled passer, especially when the floor is open. However, he might not feel the need to join the team after earning more than $203 million in his NBA career to date. Furthermore, he probably would have signed by now if he had received stronger contractual offers. His choices are limited since the teams have already spent all of their money, but the New York Knicks are still interested in him. Also read: The Phoenix Suns and the New York Knicks eye Darvin Ham for coaching staff shake-up For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Economic Times
4 hours ago
- Economic Times
Is The Hunting Wives Season 2 happening? See Season 1 episode list and how to watch in US, Australia, Canada, Middle East and Israel
AP Is The Hunting Wives Season 2 happening on Netflix? Here's all details Is The Hunting Wives Season 2 happening? The Hunting Wives became a trending mystery drama after landing on Netflix. Despite its rising popularity, Starz or Netflix have not officially confirmed Season 2. The cast and creator are hopeful, but several factors are influencing the Akerman, who plays Margo Banks, shared her interest in continuing the series. She said she hopes the show finds a large enough audience to justify another season. Akerman told Decider, 'It would be a dream come true to go again.' She added that her nervousness stems from wishing for strong audience support. Brittany Snow, who plays Sophie O'Neill, also expressed interest in exploring unanswered questions in a future season. She hinted in an interview with Collider that the ending of Season 1 was designed to lead into Season 2. Rebecca Cutter, the series creator, has already hinted at the direction for Season 2. She told Variety that a time jump is likely, although not by a full year. Cutter said the focus would remain on two key elements: the mystery and the relationship between Sophie and Margo. She plans to examine the power dynamics and emotional arcs between the characters while introducing a new crime Read: Justin Timberlake Lyme Disease Diagnosis: See star's complete statement shared in emotional Instagram post The Hunting Wives Season 1 Episode List is: Strange and Unfamiliar Places – Sophie meets Margo at a party. Knockin' Boots – Secrets threaten Jed's political future. Sunrise Tells the Story – A secret leads to a tense hunting trip. Cheat Day – A body is found, and Sophie's gun goes missing. Not Her First Rodeo – Police question Sophie; Jill covers for Brad. Deep in the Heart of Texas – Sophie searches for answers from Margo's brother. Shooting Star – Sophie and Margo team up to find the killer. Sophie's Choice – Sophie discovers a truth that changes everything. The first season of The Hunting Wives has eight episodes. All are available to stream on Netflix in the US. Outside the US, The Hunting Wives streams on Stan (Australia), Crave (Canada), OSN (Middle East), and HOT (Israel). It may appear on other platforms in different countries, depending on holds exclusive US rights for one year. After that, Netflix may renew the deal, or Lionsgate might offer the series to other streamers. This makes the future of Season 2 uncertain. Also Read: Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 3: Netflix show's new characters, director and filming update Netflix currently lists The Hunting Wives as 'Season 1,' not a limited series. This choice hints that a second season is being considered. According to Deadline, if the show performs well, Netflix may co-develop Season 2 or license it again for model mirrors other series that secured renewals after positive streaming results. The decision depends on audience reception, viewership data, and licensing deals between Netflix, Starz, and Lionsgate. Will Netflix stream Season 2 of The Hunting Wives? Netflix might stream Season 2 if it renews its deal or partners with Starz. It depends on Season 1's performance and rights negotiations. Has Season 2 of The Hunting Wives been confirmed? No, Season 2 is not officially confirmed. Cast and creator hope for renewal, and plans depend on streaming success and licensing agreements.
