Kanpur, February 9, 2026: The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur became a hub of intense concentration and competitive spirit as the Chess Club, IIT Kanpur, successfully hosted the “SBI GIC Ltd. Presents FIDE-Rated Open Rapid Chess Tournament 2026.” Spread across the Yoga Hall and the Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), the event brought together a remarkable gathering of 336 chess players, making it one of the largest and most competitive FIDE-rated rapid tournaments ever organized at the institute.

From the very first round, the tournament set a high standard. The field featured an exceptional mix of experience and emerging talent, led by India’s latest Grandmaster-elect, who has completed all Grandmaster norms and surpassed the 2500+ FIDE rating benchmark. The competition was further strengthened by the presence of three International Masters, FIDE Masters, two Candidate Masters, a Woman FIDE Master, several Arena-titled players, and a large number of strong players representing clubs, institutions, and regions from across the country.

Conducted in accordance with FIDE rapid chess regulations, the tournament provided participants with a professional, well-organized competitive environment. Beyond the games themselves, the event reflected a larger vision: to promote high-level chess on campus and to give young and aspiring players a rare opportunity to test their skills against titled professionals without the need for extensive travel.

As the rounds progressed, the tension steadily built, with closely contested games, decisive tactical battles, and moments of resilience on every board. After an intense day of play, the tournament concluded with the following top finishers:

• 1st Place:IM Anuj Shrivatri
• 2nd Place:Arnav Agrawal
• 3rd Place:IM Aaryan Varshney
• 4th Place:IM Aaditya Dhingra
• 5th Place:IM Dinesh K. Sharma

The Chess Club, IIT Kanpur, extends its sincere gratitude to SBI GIC Ltd. for their generous title sponsorship and continued support of competitive chess. We would also like to thank SBI for co-powering our event and making this event a reality! The organizers also acknowledge the dedication of the arbiters, volunteers, and participants, whose collective efforts ensured the smooth execution and success of the event.

With the successful conclusion of this tournament, IIT Kanpur reaffirms its commitment to fostering both sporting excellence and intellectual competition, further strengthening chess as a vibrant and growing part of campus life.

About IIT Kanpur

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, is recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India. Renowned for excellence in science, engineering, and interdisciplinary education, IIT Kanpur spans a 1,050-acre lush green campus and comprises 20 departments, 27 centres, three interdisciplinary programmes, and three specialized schools. With over 570 faculty members and more than 9,500 students, the institute continues to lead in innovation, research, and holistic development.

For more information, please visit: www.iitk.ac.in