Chess Mahakumbh Begins at KIIT: Viswanathan Anand Joins Global Chess Stars in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: A major global chess spectacle has begun in Bhubaneswar as the three-day Chess Mahakumbh KIIT officially kicks off today at the KIIT campus. The prestigious event has drawn international attention with the arrival of FIDE Vice President and Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand, who landed in the Odisha capital to take part in the celebrations and high-level discussions surrounding the tournament.

Chess Mahakumbh KIIT inaugurated with global chess leadership

The mega event is being jointly organised by the International Chess Federation and the Chess Federation of India. Along with Viswanathan Anand, several top global chess administrators have arrived in Bhubaneswar, including FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE Deputy Chair Dana Reizniece, and AICF President Nitin Narang.

The International Conference on Social and Educational Chess and the Chess Mahakumbh were inaugurated today, marking the formal start of the three-day intellectual and sporting extravaganza.

International Chess Hall inaugurated at KIIT campus

On this occasion, Viswanathan Anand inaugurated the International Chess Hall and Chess Ground at the KIIT University campus. The initiative aims to promote chess education, research, and grassroots development, reinforcing KIIT’s growing role in hosting global sporting and academic events.

Chess Mahakumbh KIIT attracts players from 40 countries

The scale of participation underlines the global significance of the event. More than 80 elite chess stars from India and abroad are taking part, with players representing nearly 40 countries. In total, around 5,200 chess players are participating, including nearly 5,000 players from across India, making it one of the largest chess congregations ever held in the country.

Events spread across KIIT and Hotel Mayfair

The Chess Mahakumbh and associated conferences are being hosted across multiple venues, including the KIIT campus and Hotel Mayfair Bhubaneswar. Apart from competitive matches, the event will feature discussions on the social, educational and cognitive impact of chess, bringing together administrators, educators and players on a common platform.

With legendary players, global administrators and thousands of participants under one roof, the Chess Mahakumbh is expected to place Bhubaneswar firmly on the world chess map while inspiring the next generation of Indian chess talent.