Malls Minds & Magic: In a unique and vibrant celebration of International Chess Day, Bhubaneswar witnessed a landmark event as two dynamic organizations – Communite Odisha and Chessturf Academy – joined hands for the first time to organize a Rapid Chess Tournament inside the city’s largest mall, Esplanade, Bhubaneswar. The event, a brilliant fusion of sport, intellect, and public engagement, also introduced an exciting new format — Chess Sudoku, a first of its kind in Odisha.
Communite Odisha, led by the energetic duo Sovna Sonali Jena and Somyajit Bhuyan, partnered with Chessturf Academy, directed by Swayangsu Satyakam, in collaboration with Circle Chess, to orchestrate this one-of-a-kind celebration.
The tournament was inaugurated by International Master Anwesh Upadhyaya, setting the tone for a day filled with strategy and sportsmanship. In a heartwarming gesture, WGM Kiran Manisha Mohanty, freshly returned from the World Cup in Georgia, graced the closing ceremony as the Chief Guest and awarded prizes to winners of the competition.
Living up to expectations, FIDE Master Soumya Ranjan Mishra, the tournament’s top seed, clinched the title with an impressive 6.5/7 score. He was closely followed by Tapan Badamundi and Fakir Mahi, who secured the 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.
In the Unrated Section, it was Haraprasad Chatterjee who emerged victorious, with Birendra Behuria taking the runner-up spot.
Special recognition was given to young talents from Chessturf Academy, with the top 4 performers being felicitated. Circle Chess added to the excitement by awarding Caïssa Memberships to the best players in categories U-7, U-9, U-11, U-13, and U-15.
Parallelly, the Chess Sudoku Championship turned heads for its innovation. This mental battle saw Saishrit Mohapatra claim top honors, followed by Arav Agarwal and Barnit Mohanty.
With a mall full of curious onlookers, young talents, and veteran masters, this event not only celebrated chess but brought it closer to the people. It showcased how the game of kings can blend seamlessly with modern-day community spaces, creating unforgettable experiences and inspiring the next generation.
