Magnus Carlsen to headline Tata Steel Chess India in Kolkata, Nov 13-17

World No. 1 Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen to Play in Tata Steel Chess India Tournament

Kolkata is set to host the sixth edition of the Tata Steel Chess India tournament from Nov 13 to 17, and the excitement is palpable as world-renowned Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen will be making his return to India to participate. The Norwegian chess prodigy, who currently leads the Fide ratings with an impressive 2831 points, previously clinched victory in the tournament during his debut appearance in 2019.

The upcoming tournament will feature both Open and women’s categories in rapid and blitz formats, with equal prize money allocated for both sections. This year, the venue will shift from the National Library to the Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium, providing a new and exciting backdrop for the intense battles on the chessboard.

A strong Indian contingent, including GMs Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi, will be vying for top honors in the 10-player tournament. Other notable Indian players such as Nihal Sarin and SL Narayanan will also be competing in the Open category, while Koneru Humpy, R Vaishali, D. Harika, Divya Deshmukh, and Vantika Agrawal will lead the charge in the women’s category.

However, fans will miss the presence of reigning world champion China’s Ding Liren and challenger D Gukesh, as they will be preparing for their World Championship match in Singapore later in November. The tournament lineup boasts a stellar cast of international players, including Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Wesley So, and Daniil Dubov, among others.

With the stage set for an intense battle of wits and strategy, chess enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing some thrilling matchups and strategic maneuvers as the world’s best chess players converge in Kolkata for the Tata Steel Chess India tournament.