India, March 19 -- The MMRDA Ground in Mumbai is no stranger to vast stages. It is a common destination for concerts or exhibitions. But the platform being set up at the venue on Thursday had a different look.

High-backed gaming chairs lined a wall waiting to be transported onto one stage, while another stage was already decorated with similar chairs placed behind tables. A narrow walkway, marked by the flags of 19 different countries, connected both areas.

At the centre of the main hall, however, a tall, silver trophy sat on a pedestal, glistening under the lights.

On Friday, 19 international teams will take their seats on those stages to compete for the trophy in the fourth edition of the Global Esports Games.

"This is a major momen...