Nikesh Chawla is an Indian professional poker player from Pune who has rapidly become a prominent figure on the international circuit, particularly recognized for his major title wins in Cambodia and deep runs at the World Series of Poker (WSOP).

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Nikesh Chawla has total earnings of $184,464. He currently sits at 66th on the India All Time Money List and is ranked as one of the top 25 active players in the country according to the Global Poker Index. His career-best live cash of $58,080 was achieved in February 2025 during a dominant performance at a major championship in Cambodia.

The year 2025 has been a breakout period for Chawla, highlighted by his victory in the $2,000 Turbo High Roller at the World Poker Tour (WPT) ) Cambodia Championship for $58,080. He also found significant success in Las Vegas during the 56th WSOP, where he secured a deep run in the $10,000 Main Event World Championship, finishing 627th for $27,500. His resume further includes an Asian Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) title in Cambodia, where he won the $600 8-Max Survivor Bounty for $17,634. He has also recorded multiple cashes in Vietnam and Malaysia, including a final table appearance at the APPT Cambodia Megastack Turbo.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Pune, India, Chawla has successfully transitioned from a dedicated online player to a respected professional on the live global circuit. He is vocal about his journey, often sharing insights into mental endurance and the technical differences between the Indian domestic circuit and international fields.

Chawla is known for his high-volume travel schedule, frequently competing in major hubs such as Phnom Penh, Hanoi, and Las Vegas. His rapid ascent, which saw him cross the $100,000 earnings milestone in early 2025, marks him as one of the most successful contemporary players emerging from the Indian poker boom.

Play Style & Strategy

Chawla is recognized for a disciplined and calculated tournament strategy, often excelling in high-pressure “Turbo” and “High Roller” formats. His victory in the WPT Cambodia Turbo High Roller demonstrates a strong command of short-stack dynamics and the ability to apply maximum pressure in fast-paced final table situations.

His success in large-field events like the WSOP Main Event and the Gladiators of Poker suggest a resilient mindset and a deep understanding of multi-day tournament theory. Chawla emphasizes the importance of mental endurance and adapting to the aggression levels of international opponents, a tactical versatility that has allowed him to consistently cash across diverse tours including the WPT, APT, and APPT.