Jamshedpur, July 9: In celebration of International Chess Day, the Seraikela-Kharsawan District Chess Association (SKDCA) will organize a grand one-day chess festival titled ‘Moves and Flames’ on July 20, 2025, at Atal Park, S-Type, Adityapur. The event promises to be a vibrant confluence of chess enthusiasts from across Jharkhand, aiming to promote the spirit of the game alongside unity and sportsmanship.
The festival will feature a Blitz Chess Tournament, the main highlight of the day. The format includes 9 rapid-fire rounds played under a time control of 3 minutes plus 2 seconds per move, in accordance with the Swiss system and the latest rules of the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
Participants are expected to report by 1:00 PM. The opening ceremony will commence at 2:00 PM, followed by five rounds of the tournament starting at 2:15 PM. A symbolic and inspiring torch procession (Mashal Yatra) will be conducted at 4:30 PM to celebrate the unity and passion of chess players. The final four rounds will take place from 5:00 PM, and the prize distribution ceremony will be held at 6:00 PM.
A total of ₹30,000 in cash prizes and trophies will be awarded to the top 20 performers. The first prize winner will receive ₹6,000, the second ₹4,000, and the third ₹3,000. Other prizes range from ₹1,800 to ₹600. Additionally, trophies will be awarded to top-performing boys and girls in the U-7, U-9, U-11, U-13, and U-15 age groups in first, second, and third positions.
The Mashal Yatra, described as the soul of the event, will see young chess players carrying lit torches through the city, spreading a message of inspiration, discipline, and unity.
Tournament Director Utsav Ojha stated, “This event is not just about competition; it’s about building confidence, decision-making skills, and passion among young chess players. We aim to create a platform that motivates talent and strengthens community engagement through chess.”
Online registration is mandatory and available at www.skdca.com. The registration fee is ₹500 until July 17, 2025. Late registration will be allowed until July 19 with an additional fee of ₹250.
The tournament is open to all residents of Jharkhand. All participants will receive free refreshments and an e-certificate of participation. For more information, participants may contact Utsav Ojha at 83404 63830.
