Billionaire industrialist Anand Mahindra congratulated Asha Sharma on becoming the new head of Microsoft Xbox and Gaming, praising her vision of gaming as more than entertainment. He described video games as an interactive art form, combining storytelling, design, music, and community, while Indian gamers urged Xbox to invest locally.
On February 21–22, 2026, Anand Mahindra publicly congratulated Asha Sharma following her appointment as the new CEO of Xbox and Microsoft Gaming. His remarks emphasized that gaming should not be seen merely as leisure but as a cultural and artistic medium.
Mahindra highlighted how games integrate storytelling, design, music, and community, making them powerful tools for creativity and connection. His comments sparked discussions across India’s tech and gaming circles, with many noting the growing recognition of gaming as a serious industry.
Meanwhile, Indian gamers expressed optimism that Sharma’s leadership could lead to greater investment in India’s gaming ecosystem, including localized content and infrastructure.
Major Takeaways
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Anand Mahindra congratulated Asha Sharma on becoming Xbox CEO
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He described gaming as an interactive art form beyond entertainment
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Games combine storytelling, design, music, and community experiences
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Appointment seen as a milestone for women leaders in global tech
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Indian gamers hope for stronger Xbox investment in local markets
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Remarks highlight gaming’s cultural and creative significance
Conclusion
Anand Mahindra’s endorsement of Asha Sharma’s vision underscores the evolving perception of gaming as art, culture, and community. With Sharma at the helm of Xbox, India’s gaming industry anticipates new opportunities, reinforcing the global shift toward recognizing video games as a serious creative and economic force.
Sources: Times of India, The Financial Express, India Today