Pune, August 16th: The 60th National Chess Championship commenced with a spectacular display of skill and strategy as seasoned Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta dominated the first round, securing a swift victory against Anis Sikandar from Jharkhand. Gupta’s precise moves led to a triumph in just 26 moves, showcasing his exceptional prowess.
In another remarkable encounter, Grandmaster Abhimanyu Puranik swiftly checkmated Devansh Singh in 35 moves. Reflecting on his victory, Puranik shared, “The position was intricate, but I maintained an advantageous stance throughout the game.” He also expressed his optimism regarding Indian players participating in the world cup, anticipating at least two Indians qualifying for the candidates’ tournament.
Grandmaster S.P. Sethuraman exhibited his tactical finesse, outmaneuvering Saparya Ghosh in 44 moves. Sethuraman’s impeccable form denied his opponent any opportunity to gain an upper hand. Meanwhile, Grandmaster Surya Shekhar Ganguly engaged in a strategic battle with Mitul KH, where both contenders maintained an equal footing for an extended period. However, Ganguly’s experience shone through as time pressure mounted on Mitul, ultimately resulting in Ganguly’s victory through an endgame checkmate threat.
The tournament was inaugurated by esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Chandrakant Patil (Hon’ble Guardian Minister – Pune & Hon’ble Minister of Higher & Technical Education of Maharashtra), Shri Bharat Singh Chauhan (Deputy President – Asian Chess Federation & Hon’ble Chairman – FIDE Advisory Board), and other prominent figures from the chess community.
First Round Results (White and Black):
- Abhijeet Gupta (PSPB) secured victory against Anis Sikandar (JHAR).
- Abhimanyu Puranik (AAI) defeated Devansh Singh (MP).
- Sethuraman S.P. (PSPB) triumphed over Saparya Ghosh (WB).
- Surya Ganguly (PSPB) emerged victorious against Mitul KH (KAR).
- Diptayan Ghosh (WB) outplayed Avigyan Ghosh (TRI).
- Visakh NR (RSPB) won against Mohitha Vakcheri (AP).
- Mitrabha Guha (WB) defeated Nayak Kumar (KIIT).
- Iniyan P (TN) emerged victorious against Vandan Sawai (DEL).
- Vignesh NR (RSPB) bested Mithiran A (TN).
- Sayantan Das (RSPB) triumphed over Ganesh Tajane (MAH).
- Shyaamnikhil P (RSPB) and Pranay Akula (TEL) ended in a draw.
- Akash G (TN) secured victory against Hardik Jha (PSPB).
- Deepan Chakkravarthy J. (RSPB) emerged victorious against Arshiya Das (TRI).
- Neelash Saha (RSPB) defeated Harshad Parulekar (MPSCB).
- Venkatesh M.R. (PSPB) won against Shourya Paul (WB).
- Anuj Shrivatri (MP) secured victory against Prashanth Naik (KAR).
The opening rounds have set the stage for an exciting championship, with players showcasing their strategic acumen and determination on the chessboard. The competition promises to be intense as participants from across the country vie for the coveted title of the 60th National Chess Champion.
