If there is one player in India who fans are excited to watch in the upcoming VCT Pacific League, it is none other than Abhirup ‘Lightningfast’ Choudhury. An Indian gamer who was born in 2000, Lightningfast is currently a valuable player in Global Esports. He is known for his Raze plays in VALORANT.

Last season, we only got to see him play in two matches during the entire league due to his visa being delayed. Ahead of the 2024 season and the Convergence OFF//SEASON event, we got a chance to talk to Abhirup ‘Lightningfast’ Choudhury.

Image Credits: Riot Games

As a seasoned VALORANT player, what are your expectations for the upcoming Convergence event in Bangalore? What aspects of the event are you most excited about?

Global Esports’ Lightningfast: For Convergence, I expect to at least qualify for the finals. I don’t expect a lot from this tournament since we have a sub, and this tournament is just for us to get used to the stage since it has been a long time since we were on stage for a lot of us. I am most excited to play in front of the home crowd and I want to have the feeling of our people cheering for us.

With the potential for the VALORANT Convergence event to attract a large audience, do you have any advice for aspiring players who might be inspired to pursue the game competitively?

For any inspired new talent, I just want to say that having fun playing the game and just trying to have your style towards the game, is what attracts the audience and other pro players to notice you.

Given the growing popularity of VALORANT in India, do you believe the Convergence event could catalyze the establishment of a dedicated esports league in India?

I do believe that VALORANT Esports League is already a dedicated establishment in India but with this huge tournament and a lot of crowd attraction, it can solidify its establishment in India more and give individuals a sustainable environment to compete and learn.

How do you envision the future of VALORANT esports in India, and what role do you see events like the Convergence playing in shaping that future?

I do think the future of VALORANT esports in India can make PC gaming in India a good and sustainable environment for everyone (the fans, the organizations, and the players). Events like Convergence is a way to show the world how big VALORANT can be in India and for the fans it can show them how much fun VALORANT events can be.

What message would you like to convey to the VALORANT community in India, especially those who are eagerly anticipating the Convergence event and looking forward to supporting Global Esports?

It has been a long time since teams have played in India especially Global Esports and it’s time to pack the bags and start cheering for the team you love ’cause this event is going to be a lot of fun and a great competition.

How does Global Esports prepare for the Convergence event, considering the high level of competition expected from both Indian and international teams?

I will prepare the way I have prepared my whole life, I mean this tournament is big, but it doesn’t mean I have to take the pressure of changing a lot and just be myself and not care about whatever the expectations are set by others for me.