'AI is India's game-changer': Dream11 CEO on gaming, media, and the future at Startup Mahakumbh 2025

Dream11 CEO Harsh Jain, speaking at a panel discussion during Startup Mahakumbh 2025 in New Delhi, highlighted how artificial intelligence (AI) is levelling the playing field for emerging markets like India.

Jain explained that AI enables smaller Indian studios to compete with global players. "A young game development studio with just 20 people can now produce a game of the same quality as a U.S. studio. While the U.S. studio might take two years, we can do it in three. AI is democratising game development, reducing the gap for emerging markets," he said.

Discussing interactive media, Jain pointed out how AI is helping Indian startups streamline content production. "Audio content can now be easily created and translated into multiple languages. These are low-hanging fruits that are improving profit margins for businesses, especially in gaming and interactive media," he added.

On the rise of fantasy sports in India, Jain credited the company’s early investments in data science, machine learning, and AI. "We can predict real-time user engagement and automatically adjust contest sizes using cloud computing. If demand surges, AI ensures we scale seamlessly," he explained.

Jain also addressed how India’s massive user base has become a strength. "Our huge population, once seen as a challenge, is now an advantage. With so many users, companies must constantly innovate to deliver smooth experiences," he said.

He further emphasised AI’s impact on media and content creation: "Content is now generated in real time—within minutes of an event, thousands of videos are created. Users have endless choices, and this is the future of entertainment."

Other panellists present during the discussion included Rajan Navani, Founder and CEO of JetSynthesys; Anuj Tondon, Partner at BITKRAFT; and Bhavin Pandya, Co-founder and CEO of Games 24x7.

The highly anticipated second edition of Startup Mahakumbh is set to take place at Bharat Mandapam from April 3-5. The event aims to provide a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders to come together, share ideas, and build lasting connections. With a focus on fostering innovation and collaboration, Startup Mahakumbh seeks to lay the foundation for the next wave of entrepreneurial success. The mega startup event will feature more than 3,000 startups from 21+ Indian states and 50+ countries at Bharat Mandapam. Organisers promise a three-day event with “something for everyone.”