Announcement

KRAFTON India disclosed the launch of Kiaraa, the first original in‑game character IP created entirely in‑house for Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). Designed end‑to‑end by the company’s in‑house art team, Kiaraa follows Anamika, the first Indian‑origin character introduced in 2025, and arrives with a dedicated lore, a unique location on the Erangel map, and a full collection built around her. The character will be live from 8 October 2026 as part of the 4.6 update.

In‑Game Features

Kiaraa introduces an Indian‑themed Bazaar on Erangel, the second India‑focused location after the 2025 Stepwell, decorated for Diwali. The Bazaar serves as a hot‑drop point and houses Kiaraa’s boss battle, where players must activate four peacock‑shaped lamps to summon her. The ensuing fight occurs in a dome of colour, with Kiaraa wielding a bow, firing volleys and calling down arrows. Successful squads earn rewards.

The launch also brings the Kiaraa Nakshatra Collection, obtainable via the Kiaraa Nakshatra Spin, comprising: the Kiaraa Nakshatra Set (signature outfit), Divine Peacock Glider, Divine Radiance SCAR‑L weapon skin, Divine Chariot Buggy, Arrow Rain Emote, and Divine Edge Machete. Players can visit the Kiaraa Exchange Center, take on Kiaraa Arena challenges, and collect daily login rewards during the event.

Running alongside Kiaraa is BGMI’s first India‑specific Prize Path, a Diwali‑themed progression of 20 levels from 22 October to 15 November 2026, offering rewards such as the Revel 01 Set and the Diwali Gold Set.

Investment and Corporate Highlights

BGMI has surpassed 260 million downloads globally. Since 2021, KRAFTON India has invested over $250 million in Indian startups across interactive entertainment, gaming, esports, and technology. The company also launched the KRAFTON India Unicorn Growth Fund, a Rs 6,000 crore vehicle jointly set up with South Korean technology giant Naver and financial services firm Mirae Asset, aimed at supporting high‑potential startups and accelerating the growth of India’s next‑generation global technology leaders.

Corporate Background

KRAFTON, Inc., headquartered in Korea and founded in 2007, is a global game developer and publisher with a portfolio that includes PUBG Studios, Striking Distance Studios, Unknown Worlds, Neon Giant, and several others. Its franchises span titles such as PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS, PUBG MOBILE, Subnautica, TERA, and more. KRAFTON India is responsible for delivering premier mobile gaming experiences in India, with a portfolio that also includes Bullet Echo India, Road To Valor: Empires, CookieRun India, and Real Cricket.

Executive Statements

Shyam Deshpande, Director‑Art at KRAFTON India, explained that Kiaraa’s design required integrating Indian craft motifs—such as the peacock signature—into lamps, glider, buggy, and collection details while maintaining the high‑finish expected of top‑tier sets like X‑Suits and Gilt Sets. He emphasized the challenge of making Kiaraa feel native to Erangel and stated that this standard will guide future designs.

Srinjoy Das, Director‑Marketing and Product Management, highlighted that Indian players have shaped BGMI for five years and that Kiaraa, with her exclusive lore, Bazaar, and boss battle, is built specifically for them. He noted that the Aura Set is now India’s flagship collection and hinted at further Indian‑centric creations for the upcoming Diwali season.

---