With over 2,500 participants from more than 20 countries, including 24 Grandmasters, and a record prize pool of Rs1.21 crore, the tournament is a premier stage for chess excellence and talent discovery.
Organised under the aegis of the All India Chess Federation, the event remains a cornerstone of India's competitive chess calendar and a true celebration of the sport's growing appeal.
The torch was received and carried by Grandmaster J Deepan Chakkravarthy and was presented to medal winners in various sports at the race course ground.