Jamshedpur: In a dazzling display of skill and strategic brilliance, Adhiraj Mitra, a Class 7 student of Loyola School, emerged as the undisputed champion of the Jharkhand Secondary Level FIDE Rating Chess Tournament 2025. The young prodigy triumphed over 258 participants from 70 schools across the state, remaining unbeaten and finishing with a flawless score of 8/8.
Adhiraj, already a well-known name in the chess circuit, was the highest-rated player in the tournament, and his performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Not only did he defend his position as the top seed, but he also gained 20 Elo points, further strengthening his dominance in the sport.
The tournament was held over two intense days at the JRD Tata Sports Complex, where students from schools across Jharkhand showcased their chess prowess. Adhiraj’s impeccable performance stood out as he navigated through challenging games against seasoned competitors with precision and composure beyond.
Adhiraj’s journey to the top has been marked by consistent hard work and dedication. Starting his chess training at the age of six, he quickly rose through the ranks, participating in state and national-level tournaments. His coach, Grandmaster Arjun Ghosh, expressed immense pride in his student’s performance. “Adhiraj’s ability to analyze the board and anticipate his opponent’s moves is remarkable for his age. This victory is a testament to his immense potential,” said Ghosh.
Adhiraj’s parents also credited his success to the school’s support and his disciplined approach to balancing academics and chess. “Loyola School has always encouraged Adhiraj’s passion for chess, providing him with the right platform to excel. We are incredibly proud of his achievement,” they shared.
The tournament witnessed fierce competition, with participants showcasing a range of strategies and techniques. Adhiraj’s journey to victory included critical matches against players from Ranchi, Dhanbad, and Bokaro, some of whom were state-level champions.
The event concluded with a grand prize distribution ceremony, where Adhiraj was awarded the championship trophy along with a cash prize and a certificate of excellence. The organizers, Jharkhand Chess Association, praised Adhiraj’s achievement, calling him “a bright hope for Indian chess.”
When asked about his inspiration, Adhiraj mentioned his admiration for Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand. “I look up to Anand Sir for his humility and brilliance. I hope to follow in his footsteps and bring glory to India,” he said with a shy smile.
