โ ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฆ ๐๐ก๐๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐ง๐ ๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ก๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ: ๐๐จ๐ฐ ๐๐ก๐๐ง๐ง๐๐ข ๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ฅ๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฅ๐’๐ฌ ๐ ๐ฎ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ ๐๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ซ๐๐ฌ
Jun 18th, 2025
The New Chess Capital of the World Is Here โ and It Speaks Tamil
In a modest room in Chennai, the clatter of clocks and the quiet clinks of chess pieces echo louder than city noise. Here, a 7-year-old calculates ten moves ahead, and a teenager studies endgames like sacred scripture. Itโs not a scene from a movie โ itโs Madras School of Chess, a place where talent is trained, dreams are disciplined, and legends are built.

India is not just playing catch-up in the world of chess anymore. Itโs rewriting the script.
And at the very heart of this renaissance is Chennai โ the spiritual and now strategic capital of Indian chess.
โ ๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ญ ๐๐ง๐๐ข๐๐ง ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ฐ๐๐ค๐๐ง๐ข๐ง๐
Until a few decades ago, chess in India was an elite game โ admired but rarely pursued seriously. That changed forever when Chennai-born Viswanathan Anand became Indiaโs first world champion in 1995. Since then, he has inspired generations, now lovingly called โVishyโs kidsโ, to pick up the board with purpose.
From Anand to todayโs youngest World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju, the lineage continues to flourish โ and Madras School of Chess is proud to be part of this powerful story.

The pandemic, Netflix’s The Queenโs Gambit, and the explosion of chess on YouTube and Chess.com brought the game back to global limelight. But in India โ and particularly Chennai โ chess wasnโt a newfound trend. It was already a grassroots revolution in progress.
๐ง ๐๐ก๐ฒ ๐๐ก๐๐ง๐ง๐๐ข? ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ญ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ญ๐ก๐๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ
Thereโs a reason Chennai produces champions.
๐๐๐ซ๐, ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ฌ๐งโ๐ญ ๐๐ง ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ-๐ฌ๐๐ก๐จ๐จ๐ฅ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ. ๐๐ญโ๐ฌ ๐๐ง ๐ข๐๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ.

โ๏ธ Parents in Chennai enroll their children as young as 3.5 years old.
โ๏ธ Schools offer time off for tournaments.
โ๏ธ Local businesses sponsor travel for young prodigies.
โ๏ธ Communities respect chess as seriously as academics.
Even the government pitches in โ top-performing players are offered public sector jobs with full benefits. Thatโs unheard of in many parts of the world.
And then there are academies like ours โ Madras School of Chess, co-founded by GM Vishnu Prasanna, the former coach of Gukesh. We donโt just teach children how to move pieces. We build thinkers, tacticians, and problem solvers.
๐๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ข๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ก๐จ๐จ๐ฅ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ: ๐ ๐๐๐ฐ ๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ซ๐จ๐จ๐ฆ
Step into one of our training sessions and youโll witness something rare โ a classroom buzzing without noise. Eyes glued to boards. Brains in overdrive. Laughter after blunders. Cheers for clever traps.
Here, children are not judged by grades โ theyโre celebrated for creativity, calculation, and composure.

We believe every child has the potential to be a chess champion โ not through pressure, but with patience, mentorship, and consistent effort.
Our founder GM Vishnu Prasannaโs coaching philosophy centers on:
Individualized training
Exposure to real tournaments
Mental fitness and discipline
A love for the game โ before the medals
๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฒ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐: ๐๐๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐ฅ๐
While India celebrates its 85 grandmasters and international success, there remains one challenge: accessibility.
Most chess literature, training software, and lessons are in English โ a language not spoken fluently by a majority in India. Thatโs why Tamil-based coaching, YouTube channels, and community-based chess centers are crucial.
At Madras School of Chess, we bridge this gap with:

Tamil and English dual-language coaching
Affordable classes to reach rural and urban children
Parent awareness sessions to promote healthy support, not pressure
Online classes to train kids across borders
Because talent isnโt limited to language. And a champion can rise from anywhere โ if given the chance.
๐ The Power of Parents, Passion and Purpose
Ask any grandmaster how they made it โ and youโll find a family behind their success.

Gukeshโs father paused his medical career to travel with him.
Praggnanandhaaโs mother carries homemade food to global events.
Countless others, quietly, sacrifice time and income for their childrenโs game.
At Madras School of Chess, we honor that partnership. We train the child, but also guide the parent โ to create a balanced, stress-free, and joyful chess journey.
๐๐๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ฑ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฌ
India โ and Chennai โ is no longer a silent observer in the chess world. We are loud, proud, and strategic.

With a growing pool of young talent, accessible coaching, government support, and a cultural embrace of chess, weโre not asking if India will become the number one chess nation โ weโre asking when.
And maybe, just maybe, the next world champion is sitting in one of our classrooms at Madras School of Chess right now โ quietly sharpening their mind for the final move.
๐ ๐๐จ๐ข๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐ฏ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ
Whether your child is just starting out or already making waves, Madras School of Chess is here to nurture their journey.
๐ Based in Chennai
๐ Online & Offline Classes Available
๐ Trained by National Masters and Grandmasters
๐งฉ For Kids, Teens, and Curious Adults
โ๏ธ CONTACT US:
๐ฏ Make your next move the best one yet โ join Madras School of Chess, where champions begin!
๐ T.Nagar | Anna Nagar | Mandaveli | Online
๐ +91 98404 03376
๐ www.madrasschoolofchess.com
๐ฒ Follow us: @madrasschoolofchess
Your trophy is just a move away! ๐
Mastering Chess Openings: A Beginnerโs Guide to Strong Starts for White and Black
Jun 05th, 2025
Whether youโre a complete beginner or an ambitious club player looking to sharpen your game, knowing strong openings is like having a secret weapon in chess. Openings set the stage for your entire gameโget them right, and youโll glide into the middlegame with a strong, confident position. Get them wrong, and you might find yourself fighting an uphill battle from the start.
Today, letโs dive into some of the strongest chess openings for both White and Black, their strategic ideas, traps to watch for, and tips to make them work for you!
1๏ธโฃ Ruy Lopez (Spanish Opening) โ The Gentlemanโs Attack

Why Itโs Popular:
The Ruy Lopez is a timeless classic for White. By pinning the knight on c6, White exerts pressure on the center, especially the e5 pawn. The Ruy Lopez isnโt just about grabbing materialโitโs about long-term positional advantage. Itโs a favorite at all levels, from club players to world champions.
What You Need to Know:
- White aims for slow build-up, controlling the center and preparing for attacks on the kingside.
- Black has various defenses, like the Exchange Variation (4.Bxc6), leading to an unbalanced pawn structure, or the Berlin Defense (3…Nf6), known for its solidity.
- Beware of traps like the Noahโs Ark Trapโa sneaky idea where Black traps Whiteโs bishop after 4.Ba4 d6 5.c3 Bg4 6.h3 h5!?
2๏ธโฃ The Italian Game โ Simple, Yet Deadly
Why Itโs a Great Choice:
The Italian is perfect for beginnersโit teaches principles like quick development and center control while keeping tactics on the table. Itโs more direct than the Ruy Lopez, with faster attacks on f7.

Key Ideas:
- White eyes the vulnerable f7 square early, with ideas like the Fried Liver Attack (after 4.Ng5).
- Black often responds with the Giuoco Piano (3…Bc5) or the Two Knights Defense (3…Nf6)โeach with their own tactical traps!
- A famous trap: In the Two Knights, after 4.Ng5 d5 5.exd5 Nxd5, White has a sneaky trick with 6.Nxf7!?, known as the Fried Liver Attackโa bold sacrifice for an attacking initiative.
3๏ธโฃ The Queenโs Gambit โ Power Play for White
This opening is all about strategy. White offers a pawn to gain control of the center. If Black accepts (Queenโs Gambit Accepted), White gets dynamic play. If Black declines (Queenโs Gambit Declined), it leads to solid, strategic positions.

Why Itโs Loved:
- It teaches pawn structures and positional ideas.
- Youโll learn important plans like targeting the c-file and exploiting the minority attack.
Pro Tip: Watch out for traps like the Elephant Trap in the Queenโs Gambit Declined:
1.d4 d5 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.Bg5 Nbd7 5.cxd5 exd5 6.Nxd5??โa blunder! Black responds with …Nxd5, winning a piece.
4๏ธโฃ The Caro-Kann Defense โ The Rock-Solid Shield
This opening is a favorite among positional players. Black aims to control the center with d5 and develop pieces behind a solid pawn chain.

Whatโs Cool About Caro-Kann:
- It avoids the sharp lines of the Sicilian, making it more positional and less theoretical.
- It leads to solid, long-term games where Black can gradually outplay White.
5๏ธโฃ The Sicilian Defense โ The Gladiatorโs Weapon
If you want to fight for a win as Black, the Sicilian is your go-to. It creates an imbalanced position where both sides have chances for attack.

Hot Tips:
- There are many variations, from the Najdorf (5…a6) to the Dragon (5…g6). Each has unique trapsโlike the Poisoned Pawn in the Najdorf, where Black grabs a pawn but risks a deadly attack.
- As White, watch out for aggressive lines like the Smith-Morra Gambit (2.d4 cxd4 3.c3) that can catch Black off-guard.
Golden Rules for Any Opening:
โ
Control the center (with pawns and pieces).
โ
Develop your minor pieces (knights and bishops) early.
โ
Castle your king to safety.
โ
Avoid moving the same piece multiple times without a reason.
โ
Be aware of tactical tricks and traps!
Final Thoughts: Your Chess Journey Starts Here!
Openings are just the beginning of your chess adventure. By learning these fundamental openingsโRuy Lopez, Italian Game, Queenโs Gambit, Caro-Kann, and Sicilianโyouโre not just memorizing moves, youโre unlocking the strategic heart of chess.

Whether youโre aiming for friendly games or tournament glory, the right opening gives you the best possible start.
๐ Contact Us
Looking for a chess class near you to elevate your skills?
Join Madras School of Chess, Chennaiโs best chess academy, where students learn from top trainers and develop both opening strategies and overall game understanding.
Contact Number: +91 9840403376
Website: www.madrasschoolofchess.com
Our Branches: Anna Nagar, T. Nagar, Mandaveli, and Online.
Training Offered: Individual and Group Classes.
Letโs learn, grow, and master chess together!
Think, Reflect, Repeat: Chess Mastery Through Self-Analysis
May 30th, 2025
In the world of chess, progress is never accidentalโitโs a result of consistent effort, reflection, and a hunger for improvement. Whether you’re a budding enthusiast or an experienced player seeking to sharpen your skills, one timeless method stands above the rest: analyzing your own games.

Every move you make on the chessboard is a reflection of your strategy, intuition, and understanding. By revisiting these decisions, you gain a front-row seat to your own thought process. But how do you ensure that your game analysis is both effective and enjoyable? And how can smart technologyโlike the revolutionary Chessnut Evoโsupercharge your learning journey? Letโs explore.
Why Self-Analysis is the Foundation of Growth?

Many players underestimate the power of reviewing their own games. They focus on studying openings or memorizing tactics, but they miss the golden opportunity: understanding their personal decision-making process.
By analyzing your games, you uncover patterns in your thinkingโboth strengths and weaknesses. Did you rely too heavily on intuition and miss a concrete tactic? Were you too cautious in a winning position? Or perhaps you rushed in the endgame without considering alternatives? Each of these insights helps transform casual play into intentional, strategic improvement.
Step 1: Capture Every MoveโWithout Missing a Beat

For meaningful analysis, you need an accurate record of your games. Gone are the days of scribbling moves on paper or struggling with manual inputs on apps. The Chessnut Evo takes the hassle out of game logging with automatic piece recognitionโevery move is tracked flawlessly, whether youโre playing a 5-minute blitz or a 90-minute classical match.
Its sleek design and intuitive interface make it easy for players of all levels to focus on what truly matters: the game itself.
Step 2: Spot the Turning Points
Not every move carries equal weight. Some decisions change the course of the entire game. Learning to identify these critical momentsโwhere a better choice could have led to victory or saved a positionโis a skill in itself.

Chessnut Evoโs 12.3-inch display combined with its unique MAIA AI engine gives you more than just a verdict on a move; it explains decisions in a way that feels naturalโlike a coach sitting across the board. No flipping through books or juggling appsโeverything is in front of you, on the board, ready to review.
Step 3: Learn the โWhyโโNot Just the โWhatโ
Itโs easy to get caught up in what an engine says is the “best move.” But true improvement comes from asking: Why was this move good or bad? What alternatives existed?

The Chessnut Evoโs human-like AI feedback is designed to simulate how a strong human opponent would evaluate your play. It gives context, not just cold numbersโteaching you to think critically, not just memorize answers.
Step 3: Learn the โWhyโโNot Just the โWhatโ
Itโs easy to get caught up in what an engine says is the “best move.” But true improvement comes from asking: Why was this move good or bad? What alternatives existed?

There are human-like AI feedback is designed to simulate how a strong human opponent would evaluate your play. It gives context, not just cold numbersโteaching you to think critically, not just memorize answers.
Step 4: Connect Your Games to the Bigger Picture
Great players learn from others. Whether itโs studying grandmaster games or comparing your choices to higher-rated players, seeing different approaches expands your chess vision.

With Chessnut Evoโs seamless integration with platforms like Lichess and Chess.com, you can instantly compare your games with the worldโs best or upload them for detailed analysis. Explore alternative lines, spot recurring mistakes, and build a stronger intuition by aligning your play with top-tier examples.
Step 5: Turn Insight into Action
Analysis isnโt just about looking backโitโs about using what you learn to play smarter games in the future. The key is consistent practice: review your games, extract lessons, and test them in your next match.

The analysis tools makes this cycle effortless. With 10 hours of battery life, fast hardware, and even voice control features, you can train anywhere, anytime. Whether youโre at home, in a cafรฉ, or on the go, your analysis companion is ready when you are.
Bonus: Build Emotional Resilience Through Analysis
One hidden benefit of reviewing your games is developing mental toughness. By confronting your mistakes and learning from them, you build resilienceโa critical skill for any chess player. With tools, you can turn painful losses into powerful learning moments, all while maintaining a positive mindset.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Mastery Starts with Reflection
Chess improvement isnโt just about learning new openings or tacticsโitโs about understanding your own unique style and decision-making process. By making game analysis a regular part of your chess routine, you unlock a deeper level of growth.

And with a smart, intuitive tools, analysis isnโt a choreโitโs an engaging, insightful experience. From seamless game recording to AI-backed coaching, Chessnut Evo empowers you to analyze, learn, and improve like never before.
โ๏ธ Ready to Make Your Move?
Whether your child is just starting or you’re aiming for championship titles, Madras School of Chess is where real transformation begins. Guided by expert coaches and proven training methods, we shape beginners into thinkersโand thinkers into champions.
๐ Chennaiโs Premier Chess Academy
๐ Branches: Anna Nagar | T. Nagar | Mandaveli
๐ Call/WhatsApp: 98404 03376
Ready to level up your chess journey? Start analyzing todayโbecause every move holds a lesson, and every lesson brings you closer to mastery.
Nihal Sarin’s Silver Run Powered by GM Vishnu Prasanna!
May 20th, 2025
GM Nihal Sarin clinches Silver at the Asian Championship after teaming up with GM Vishnu Prasanna, Co-Founder of Madras School of Chess!

In a promising new chapter for Indian chess, Grandmaster Nihal Sarin has secured the silver medal at the prestigious Asian Individual Menโs Chess Championship, marking a strong beginning to his collaboration with GM Vishnu Prasanna, the visionary Co-Founder of Madras School Of Chess.
This isnโt just a story of a medalโitโs the rise of a dynamic new chess duo. Known for his calm demeanor and razor-sharp focus, Nihal Sarin has been a rising star in the global chess arena. His latest achievement, however, is not just a personal triumph but a testament to the strength of strategy, preparation, and mentorship.

GM Vishnu Prasanna, the architect behind some of India’s greatest modern chess successes, brings to this partnership years of experience, discipline, and deep theoretical knowledge. From guiding Gukesh D into world-class form to now mentoring Nihal, Vishnuโs coaching career is a masterclass in chess evolution.
A Mentor Who Creates Masters:
What makes this collaboration exciting is not just the results, but the process behind them. Every move on the board is a reflection of countless hours of analysis, psychological preparation, and tailored training methods. Under Vishnuโs guidance, Nihal seems to be sharpening not just his tactics, but his overall approach to high-stakes tournament play.

The Asian Championship served as a testing groundโand the silver medal is a clear signal. This duo is here to challenge, compete, and claim.
Guiding the Game, Shaping Champions โ The Vision of GM Vishnu Prasanna, Co-Founder of Madras School of Chess

At the heart of Madras School of Chess stands GM Vishnu Prasanna, a visionary co-founder and a guiding force behind many rising stars. His strategic brilliance and calm mentorship have carved out unique paths for young talents to thrive. As the former coach of the reigning World Chess Champion Gukesh, his legacy continues to inspire every student who enters our academy. GM Vishnu doesnโt just teach chessโhe cultivates thinking minds and future champions. With every move, Madras School of Chess shines brighter, driven by his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Eyes on the Future:
As the chess world watches, this silver moment could very well be the beginning of a golden era for Nihal Sarin. The partnership with Vishnu Prasanna is fresh, but the foundation is already strong. With upcoming international events and rising stakes, we expect nothing short of brilliance.

In the grand game of chess, strategy wins the dayโbut synergy wins championships. And this team is already proving they have both.
โ๏ธ Ready to Make Your Move?
Whether your child is just starting or you’re aiming for championship titles, Madras School of Chess is where real transformation begins. Guided by expert coaches and proven training methods, we shape beginners into thinkersโand thinkers into champions.
๐ Chennaiโs Premier Chess Academy
๐ Branches: Anna Nagar | T. Nagar | Mandaveli
๐ Call/WhatsApp: 98404 03376
Join the legacy. Build your strategy. Checkmate your limits.
Enroll Today!
From Ancient Battlefields to Modern Mastery: The Evolution of Chess
Apr 29th, 2025
Chess didnโt just magically become the global phenomenon we know today. Its roots are ancient, weaving back through centuries of history, invention, and imagination.
Originating from India as Chaturanga around 600 AD, chess predates much of recorded historyโand many of the worldโs greatest inventions. Yet, the game in its early days looked very different from the chessboard we recognize now.
Today, we embark on a journey through time to explore how chess evolved, morphed, and captured the hearts of millions, from dusty palaces to digital screens.
We’ll begin with Chaturanga and conclude at the historic moment when Wilhelm Steinitz earned the crown of the very first World Chess Champion.
Letโs dive in!

The Birth of a Legend: Chaturanga and Its Beginnings

Around 1,500 years ago, somewhere in India, an ingenious game called Chaturanga took form. Though the precise year remains debated, most historians agree it flourished by 700 AD.
This early version of chess bore some noticeable differences compared to todayโs game:
- Raja (King) โ One square in any direction
- Matri (Counselor/Queen) โ Only one square diagonally
- Ratha (Chariot/Rook) โ Like todayโs rook
- Gaja (Elephant/Bishop) โ Two squares diagonally, jumping over pieces
- Ashva (Horse/Knight) โ Moves as today’s knight
- Padร ti (Pawn) โ Moves like a pawn but with notable differences

Victory wasn’t achieved through checkmate but by capturing the king. Draws were nonexistentโstalemate meant defeat!
As Chaturanga spread westward to Persia by 500 AD, it evolved yet again.
A Royal Gift: Shatranj in Persia

When an Indian king presented Chaturanga as a luxurious gift (crafted with rubies and emeralds) to the Persian empire, he unknowingly launched the next chapter of chess.
The Persians transformed the game into Shatranj, keeping most of the structure but adding one crucial rule: checkmate. Players now had to declare Shฤh (check) and Shฤh Mฤt (the king is helpless).
The pieces were renamed, too:
- Shฤh (King) โ Same movements
- Firzan (Queen) โ One square diagonally
- Rukh (Rook) โ Same as modern rook
- Fฤซl (Bishop) โ Two-square diagonal jump
- Faras (Knight) โ Same as knight today
- Baidaq (Pawn) โ Standard pawn movement

During the Islamic Golden Age, Shatranj flourished, leading to chess books by Al-Adli and Al-Suli. It even birthed variants like Four-Player Shatranj and Circular Chess.
But the story doesnโt end there.
The Chess Family Grows: Spreading Beyond Borders

While Persia honed Shatranj, other regions created their own chess-like games:
- China adapted Chaturanga into Xiangqiโwith rivers, palaces, and cannons that leap over pieces.
- Japan crafted Shogi, introducing the revolutionary idea of reusing captured pieces!
- Mongolia birthed Shatar, a rugged version reflecting Mongol life, where the rook became a Tereg (ox cart).
Each region took the spirit of Chaturanga and breathed unique life into it.
Europe Enters the Game: Medieval Innovations

Chess arrived in Europe via multiple routes: Moorish Spain, Crusader knights, and Byzantine traders.
Here, the boardโand the game itselfโtransformed dramatically.
- Elephants became bishops.
- Chariots turned into towers (rooks).
- Foot soldiers were now pawns, representing the common folk.
By 1200, chess was the pastime of nobles. But games dragged on for days! To speed things up:
- Pawns could move two squares on their first move (leading to the en passant rule).
- Castling was invented to tuck kings safely into corners.
- The queen, once the weakest piece, became the most powerful force on the board.
Europe didn’t just change the rulesโthey made chess visually appealing too. Pieces morphed from abstract tokens into sculpted miniatures of medieval life.
Chess Faces Resistance and Rises Stronger

Chess wasnโt universally loved. Some religious leaders branded it sinful, linking it to gambling. King Louis IX even banned it in 1254 (unsuccessfully, of course).
Still, chess kept marching forward, with names like Ruy Lรณpez de Segura and Gioacchino Greco pushing chess theory into new heights.
Books were printed, strategies codifiedโand chess started to feel a lot like the modern mental battlefield we know today.
The Road to the World Champion: A New Era Dawns

๐๐ฒ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ฌ, ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ซ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฐ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ณ๐ณ๐ข๐ง๐ .
The first chess clubs, like Paris’s Cafรฉ de la Rรฉgence and London’s Simpson’s Divan, became battle arenas for sharp minds.
Sandglasses and eventually mechanical clocks were introduced to stop players from spending hours pondering a single move.

As competition heated up, one man stood above the rest: Wilhelm Steinitz.
Unlike his predecessors, who preferred all-out attacks, Steinitz pioneered the art of positional playโslowly building tiny advantages until his opponents collapsed.
The rivalry between Steinitz and Johannes Zukertort set the stage for historyโs biggest chess showdown.
A Crown is Forged: The First World Chess Championship

In 1886, chess history was made.
The United States hosted the first-ever World Chess Championship between Steinitz and Zukertort.
The match was gruelingโtwenty games longโand Steinitz crushed his rival 10โ5 (excluding draws).
He was crowned the first official World Chess Champion, opening a legacy that continues today.
Conclusion: The Endless Journey of Chess
From dusty Indian courts to bustling European cafรฉs, from fierce Mongol warriors to Parisian philosophersโchess has evolved, adapted, and thrived.
Each era layered a new strategy, rule, or dream upon a simple battlefield of 64 squares.
And as we continue to play, study, and fall in love with the game, we also become part of this timeless story.
๐๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ฅ๐ข๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ!
โ๏ธ Begin Your Chess Journey with the Best!
๐ Locations: T. Nagar | Anna Nagar | Mandaveli | Online
๐ Call: +91 98404 03376
๐ Visit: www.madrasschoolofchess.com
Follow us for updates and inspiration: @madrasschoolofchess
๐ Master the game. Shape your future. Start today!
Train with Indiaโs Chess Titans: Secrets of Grandmasters Revealed At This Chess Camp!
Apr 03rd, 2025
Are you a 1400-1800 rated chess player looking to refine your strategies, outplay your opponents, and take your game to the next level? The Madras School of Chess (MSC) presents an exclusive April Rated Chess Camp designed to help you sharpen your skills with elite Grandmasters and International Masters!
This intensive 3-day chess camp will provide expert training, hands-on activities, and deep strategic insights from some of Indiaโs finest chess minds. Whether you’re an aspiring champion or a passionate player, this is the perfect opportunity to unlock your full potential.
๐ Camp Details:
๐
Dates: April 18, 19, 20, 2024
๐ Time: 10:00 AM โ 5:00 PM
๐ Location: Anna Nagar Premises, Chennai
๐ฐ Fees: โน4999 (including GST)
๐จโ๐ซ Training Structure:
โ๏ธ Lecture Hours: 15 Hours of Grandmaster-led classes
โ๏ธ Activity Hours: 3 Hours of interactive chess challenges
๐ Meet Your Expert Coaches:
โ GM Vishnu Prasanna

โ
33rd Indian Grandmaster
โ
Former Coach of World Chess Champion GM Gukesh
โ
Renowned for his deep understanding of chess strategies
โ GM Akash Ganesan

โ
66th Indian Grandmaster
โ
Youngest National Senior Chess Champion
โ
Expert in opening theory & positional play
โ IM Navin Kanna

โ
U-25 National Champion (2014)
โ
U-13 National Champion (2002)
โ
Tamil Nadu State Chess Champion (2012)
These world-class coaches will guide you through advanced strategies, tactics, and endgames, ensuring that you gain practical skills to apply in your next tournament.
๐ What You Will Learn:
๐น Advanced Opening Preparation โ Learn powerful opening setups tailored to your playing style.
๐น Middlegame Mastery โ Improve positional play, calculation techniques, and attack-building.
๐น Endgame Expertise โ Master key theoretical endgames and practical winning strategies.
๐น Tactical Vision & Calculation โ Identify threats, spot combinations, and execute powerful moves.
๐น Practical Tournament Tips โ Insights on psychological preparation and decision-making.
This camp is not just about learning; itโs about applying knowledge through practical exercises, game analysis, and exclusive training techniques.
๐ Why You Should Join This Camp:

โ๏ธ Elite Training โ Learn from top GMs & IMs with proven coaching success.
โ๏ธ Structured Curriculum โ A well-planned syllabus focusing on practical improvement.
โ๏ธ Hands-on Activities โ Interactive chess exercises, puzzles, and practice games.
โ๏ธ Exclusive Small Group Training โ Get personal attention and feedback.
โ๏ธ Unmatched Learning Experience โ Gain insights, strategies, and preparation techniques used by champions.
๐ฏ Only Limited Seats Available! Secure your spot today before it’s too late!
๐ข How to Register?
๐ Call/WhatsApp: +91 9840403376
๐ Register Online: www.madrasschoolofchess.com
๐ Location: Anna Nagar Premises, Chennai
๐ฅ Don’t miss this golden opportunity to level up your chess skills and compete with confidence!
๐ Register NOW and start your journey to chess mastery! ๐โ
๐๐๐๐๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฏ๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ค๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฌ?
Join the Madras School of Chess, where champions are made! Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, our expert coaching will help you master the game.
๐ Locations: T.Nagar, Anna Nagar, Mandaveli & Online
๐ Call: +91 98404 03376
๐ Visit: www.madrasschoolofchess.com
Checkmate Your Boredom: Dive Into the Exciting World of Chess!
Mar 29th, 2025
Welcome, chess lovers and curious minds! Whether you’re making your first move or already a tactical genius, chess is an exhilarating game filled with endless possibilities. Itโs not just about capturing piecesโitโs a journey of strategy, creativity, and pure enjoyment! Letโs explore why chess is both fun and incredibly beneficial for your mind and soul.
The Fun Side of Chess

Chess is like a thrilling adventure where every move writes a new story. From heart-racing attacks to clever escapes, every game is a unique experience. Hereโs why chess is more than just a game:
- Exciting Openings: Just like a gripping novel, a chess game begins with intrigue. Whether you enjoy the flamboyant Kingโs Gambit or the solid Caro-Kann Defense, experimenting with different openings adds a touch of excitement to your game.
- Unique Chess Variants: Feeling adventurous? Shake things up with fun versions of chess! Try Chess960 for a shuffled starting position, Crazyhouse for chaotic piece-swapping, or Bughouse for a fast-paced team battle. These fresh twists make chess even more electrifying.
- Brain-Teasing Puzzles: Love challenges? Chess puzzles put your problem-solving skills to the test. Solving tactical puzzles boosts your ability to think ahead and outsmart opponents. Ready to crack a tough one today?
The Mind-Boosting Benefits of Chess

Chess isnโt just a gameโitโs a mental workout! Hereโs how it supercharges your brain:
- Sharpen Your Thinking Skills: Chess is like lifting weights for your brain. It enhances memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities, making you sharper in everyday life.
- Stay Cool Under Pressure: Chess teaches patience and emotional control. Whether youโre facing a tough decision on the board or in life, chess helps you remain calm and make thoughtful choices.
- Connect With People Worldwide: Chess is a universal language that brings people together. Whether youโre playing at home, in a local club, or online with players from across the globe, chess fosters friendships and camaraderie.
- Boost Your Strategic Mindset: Every chess move requires careful planning. This skill translates into real-life situations, helping you think ahead, strategize, and make better decisions in work and daily activities.
- A Stress Reliever & Brain Booster: Need a mental escape? Chess offers therapeutic benefits for all ages. It helps kids develop critical thinking and keeps older adults mentally agile. Plus, itโs a great way to unwind and relax!
Fun Ways to Elevate Your Chess Journey

- Try Blindfold Chess: Challenge yourself by playing without looking at the board! It enhances memory, focus, and visualization skillsโplus, itโs a cool party trick.
- Join Online Tournaments: Test your skills against players worldwide! Online chess tournaments offer an exciting way to improve and compete at your level.
- Discover New Strategies: Experiment with different tactics and see how they impact your game. Chess is all about learning and evolving!
Whatโs your favorite thing about chess? Have you discovered a new strategy that changed the way you play? Share your thoughts and letโs celebrate the joy of chess together!
๐๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฒ ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ง๐๐ฑ๐ญ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ญ ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ฒ๐๐ญ!
๐๐๐๐๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฏ๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ค๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฌ?
Join the Madras School of Chess, where champions are made! Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, our expert coaching will help you master the game.
๐ Locations: T.Nagar, Anna Nagar, Mandaveli & Online
๐ Call: +91 98404 03376
๐ Visit: www.madrasschoolofchess.com
Start your journey to chess mastery today! โ๏ธ๐
Mastering Chess Puzzles: The Best Strategies to Solve Tactics Correctly!
Mar 14th, 2025
Chess puzzles are an excellent way to sharpen your tactical vision and improve decision-making skills during real games. By regularly solving puzzles, you train your mind to quickly recognize patterns, anticipate threats, and execute strong moves with precision. Over time, this reduces blunders and enhances overall playing strength.

Why Solving Puzzles is Crucial for Chess Improvement

Practicing chess puzzles helps you:
โ Improve tactical awareness to spot threats and opportunities.
โ Enhance calculation skills for accurate move sequencing.
โ Develop pattern recognition to identify recurring tactical motifs.
โ Strengthen problem-solving abilities under time constraints.
Steps to Solve Chess Puzzles Effectively
1. Identify Tactical Motifs
Before making a move, recognize key tactical elements in the position:
๐น Loose or undefended pieces.
๐น X-ray attacks through diagonals or files.
๐น Pieces aligned on the same rank, file, or diagonal.
๐น Weak king position vulnerable to checks and mates.

2. Consider Candidate Moves
Focus on forcing moves firstโchecks, captures, and threats (CCT). These are often the foundation of successful tactics. Always scan for moves that can directly influence the opponentโs king or material balance.

3. Calculate All Variations
Calculation is the heart of chess tactics. Before making a move:
โ Analyze all possible responses from your opponent.
โ Look for forcing sequences (checks, captures, and threats).
โ Visualize different variations in your head without touching the pieces.
A strong player doesnโt rely on trial and error but calculates deeply to ensure the chosen move is correct before executing it.

4. Recognize and Name the Tactic
Once you find the best move, identify the tactical theme behind itโsuch as a pin, fork, skewer, discovered attack, or double check. Naming these tactics reinforces learning and helps in recalling them during real games.

5. Verify the Solution
Double-check your answer by ensuring:
โ No better move is available.
โ The opponentโs best defensive responses have been considered.
โ The solution leads to a decisive advantage (winning material, checkmate, or significant positional gain).

Tips for Efficient Puzzle Solving
โ
Start with easier puzzles and gradually increase difficulty.
โ
Use a real chessboard if visualization is challenging.
โ
Set a time limit to simulate practical game situations.
โ
Learn from mistakesโreview incorrect solutions and understand what went wrong.
At first, this process might seem slow, but with practice, your mind will process tactical patterns instantly, leading to stronger play over the board.

Practical Examples of Tactical Solving
Example 1
Position Analysis: White’s king is exposed, a rook is active on the 2nd rank, and both bishops are aimed at the king.
Steps to Solve:
- Tactical Motifs โ Weak king, aligned pieces, active bishops.
- Candidate Moves โ Consider Bxc2 and Rxc2.
- Calculation:
- 1… Bxc2 2. Qxc3 โ White wins.
- 1… Rxc2 2. Kb1 Rb2 3. Ka1 (or Kc1) Rb1# โ Checkmate!
- Recognized Tactics โ Discovered attack & double check.
- Verification โ The solution is correct. โ

Example 2
Position Analysis: Whiteโs king is weak, and Blackโs king is highly active, creating attacking chances.

Steps to Solve:
- Tactical Motifs โ Weak back-rank, active king, open files.
- Candidate Moves โ Consider Rxg4 and Rc1.
- Calculation:
- 1… Rxg4 2. Rd5 Ke3 3. Nd1 โ Discovered attack, Black loses.
- 1… Rc1 2. Nd1 Rf1 3. Kxf1 Rxd1 4. Kg2 โ The king escapes, White wins.
- 1… Rc1 2. Nd1 Rxd1 3. Kxd1 Rf1# โ Checkmate!
- Recognized Tactics โ Sacrifices leading to a back-rank checkmate.
- Verification โ The solution is accurate. โ
Final Thoughts

Mastering chess puzzles requires patience, consistency, and strong calculation skills. The key is to train your mind to think logically and systematically. When solving puzzles, donโt rushโcalculate deeply, understand tactical motifs, and refine your pattern recognition. Over time, these skills will seamlessly integrate into your games, making you a more formidable player.
๐๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฒ ๐ฌ๐จ๐ฅ๐ฏ๐ข๐ง๐ ! โโโ
๐๐๐๐๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฏ๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ค๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฌ?
Join the Madras School of Chess, where champions are made! Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, our expert coaching will help you master the game.
๐ Locations: T.Nagar, Anna Nagar, Mandaveli & Online
๐ Call: +91 98404 03376
๐ Visit: www.madrasschoolofchess.com
Start your journey to chess mastery today! โ๏ธ๐
How to Obtain a FIDE Rating: Your Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Rated Chess Player
Feb 25th, 2025
If you’re passionate about chess and aspire to compete at a professional level, securing a FIDE rating is a crucial step. Recognized globally, a FIDE (Fรฉdรฉration Internationale des รchecs) rating reflects your performance in official tournaments and establishes your standing in the chess community. This guide will take you through the essential steps to obtaining your first FIDE rating.
๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ข๐ง ๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐
Before participating in FIDE-rated tournaments, you must acquire a FIDE ID. This unique identification number is issued through your national chess federation and serves as your official record in FIDE events. The process to obtain one varies by country but typically includes:
๐.๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง.
๐.๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐ข๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐๐ก ๐๐ฌ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐ง๐๐ฆ๐, ๐๐๐ญ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ข๐ซ๐ญ๐ก, ๐๐ง๐ ๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ.
๐.๐๐๐ฒ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐ฒ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐๐๐๐ฌ ๐ซ๐๐ช๐ฎ๐ข๐ซ๐๐ ๐๐ฒ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง.
Once you receive your FIDE ID, all your rated games and tournament performances will be tracked under this identifier, forming the foundation of your chess career.
In the next steps, we’ll explore how to participate in FIDE-rated tournaments and earn your first official chess rating!

๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐จ๐๐๐ญ๐ ๐ ๐ ๐๐๐-๐๐๐ญ๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ
To acquire a FIDE rating, you must participate in an officially recognized FIDE-rated tournament. You can find such events by:
Checking your national chess federationโs website for details on upcoming rated tournaments.
Visiting the FIDE website (www.fide.com) to explore international tournament listings.
Consulting local chess clubs to see if they host or have information about FIDE-rated competitions.
Ensure that the tournament adheres to FIDE regulations, as not all chess events qualify for official rating calculations.
๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ข๐ ๐๐๐ช๐ฎ๐ข๐ซ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ
To secure your initial FIDE rating, you must fulfill the following conditions:
Compete in a FIDE-rated tournament.
Score at least one point (win or draw) against an already-rated player.
Play a minimum of five games within a rated event.
Achieve a performance rating of at least 1400.
Step 4: Competing Against Rated Players
For your first rating to be assigned, you need to secure at least one point (either through a win or a draw) against players who already have a FIDE rating. If you fail to score against rated players, your performance will not be considered for obtaining a FIDE rating. You can estimate your provisional rating using the FIDE Rating Calculator.
๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐ฐ๐๐ข๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐จ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐
Once your tournament concludes, the event organizers will submit the results to FIDE. Official ratings are updated on the 1st of every month and can be accessed on the FIDE website (ratings.fide.com). If you have met all requirements, your name will appear in the FIDE rating list.
๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐
Earning a FIDE rating is just the beginning. To enhance your rating, consider:
Competing regularly in rated tournaments.
Studying chess openings, middlegame strategies, and endgames.
Analyzing your games to identify areas for improvement.
Challenging stronger players to gain practical experience.
Achieving a FIDE rating is an exciting milestone, allowing you to compete internationally, monitor your progress, and set new objectives. Whether your goal is to reach 2000+ or beyond, consistent practice and strategic learning are key to improvement.
If youโre looking for high-level practice games against Titled Players, check out BoltChess (boltchess.com)โa great platform to gain valuable experience before entering an official FIDE-rated tournament.
Ready to Elevate Your Chess Skills?
Join the Madras School of Chess, where champions are made! Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, our expert coaching will help you master the game.
๐ Locations: T.Nagar, Anna Nagar, Mandaveli & Online
๐ Call: +91 98404 03376
๐ Visit: www.madrasschoolofchess.com
Start your journey to chess mastery today! โ๏ธ๐
๐๐๐ซ๐ฅ๐ฌ๐๐ง ๐๐๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ: ๐ ๐ข๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฐ๐๐จ๐ฐ๐ง ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ฎ๐ค๐๐ฌ๐ก
Feb 18th, 2025
The 13th edition of Norway Chess will witness the first classical encounter between reigning World Champion GM Gukesh Dommaraju and world number-one GM Magnus Carlsen since Gukesh’s historic title victory in Singapore.
Staying true to its traditions, Norway Chess will retain its established format, prize fund, and venue, with eight of the twelve participants from last year returning to compete.

The prestigious tournament will take place in Stavanger, Norway, from May 26 to June 7, featuring a six-player double round-robin classical event. Alongside the main event, the Norway Chess Women tournament will also continue, showcasing six formidable players.
๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฐ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐: ๐ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ก-๐๐ญ๐๐ค๐๐ฌ ๐๐๐ญ๐ญ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ฐ๐๐ข๐ญ๐ฌ
The highly anticipated 13th edition of Norway Chess is set to bring an electrifying encounter between World Champion GM Gukesh Dommaraju and World No. 1 GM Magnus Carlsen. This marks their first classical game since Gukesh claimed the world title in Singapore, making it one of the most awaited clashes in modern chess history.

๐๐ซ๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐๐ฌ: Format, Prize Fund & Venue Remain Unchanged
Norway Chess maintains its signature format, prize pool, and venue, with eight of the twelve participants returning from last year. From May 26 to June 7, Stavanger will host a six-player double round-robin classical tournament, ensuring an intense competition among the world’s elite players. Alongside the Open section, the Norway Chess Women event also returns with a strong lineup.

๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ข๐ญ๐๐ง๐ฌ ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐๐ฆ๐๐ฅ๐: ๐๐๐ซ๐ฅ๐ฌ๐๐งโ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐
The tournament boasts a powerhouse lineup, featuring six of the worldโs top eight players. Among them are six-time Norway Chess champion Carlsen, 2023 winner GM Hikaru Nakamura, and 2018 champion GM Fabiano Caruana.
Making a strong return is World Champion Gukesh, who impressed with a third-place finish in 2023. Indian GM Arjun Erigaisi and Chinaโs GM Wei Yi are set to make their debut in Stavanger, adding fresh excitement to the mix.

๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐ญ๐๐ก ๐๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ :
Beyond the star-studded roster, all eyes will be on the long-awaited classical face-off between Carlsen and Gukesh. Their last encounter in the 2023 FIDE World Cup quarterfinal saw Carlsen emerge victorious, eliminating Gukesh with a 1.5-0.5 scoreline. Now, as the reigning world champion, Gukesh is ready to challenge Carlsenโs dominance.

๐๐๐โ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ: ๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐๐๐๐ญ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ:
Norway Chess CEO Kjell Madland expressed excitement about the tournamentโs stellar lineup.
“๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฑ๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ฆ๐๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐ฌ๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฌ๐๐ข๐๐ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ข๐๐ฅ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ. ๐๐ญ’๐ฌ ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ , ๐๐ฒ๐ง๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ฌ๐ก๐๐ ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐ฆ๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฌ. ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐ ๐ซ๐๐ฉ๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐๐ง๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฆ ๐๐ง๐๐ข๐, ๐๐ก๐ข๐ง๐, ๐๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐.๐.๐. ๐ฐ๐๐ฌ ๐ ๐ค๐๐ฒ ๐ฉ๐ซ๐ข๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ฎ๐ฌ. ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐ฏ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐ ๐ ๐ฌ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ๐๐๐ฅ๐.”
๐๐๐ซ๐ฅ๐ฌ๐๐งโ๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐ข๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ ๐จ๐๐ฎ๐ฌ: ๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐๐
Fans will cherish the opportunity to see Carlsen in a classical tournament, as his participation in this format has significantly decreased. In 2024, he played only 18 classical gamesโthe lowest in his career. With his attention shifting towards freestyle formats and rapid events like the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam and Esports World Cup, Norway Chess might be his only classical event of 2025.
Despite this shift, the tournament organizers remain optimistic about his future involvement.
“๐๐๐ ๐ง๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐ก๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฅ๐ฐ๐๐ฒ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ฃ๐จ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ก๐๐ซ๐, ๐๐ง๐ ๐ฐ๐ ๐ก๐๐ฏ๐ ๐ ๐ ๐ซ๐๐๐ญ ๐ซ๐๐ฅ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ๐ก๐ข๐ฉ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐ก๐ข๐ฆ. ๐๐ ๐๐ฑ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ ๐ก๐ข๐ฆ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง ๐ข๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ,”
Madland confirmed.
๐๐๐๐ฉ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ฏ๐
Norway Chess remains committed to preserving classical chess as its core format. While armageddon tiebreakers will still be in place, the primary focus is on long-form battles.
“๐๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ก๐๐ฏ๐ ๐ฏ๐จ๐ข๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ญ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ฅ ๐ญ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ซ๐๐ซ๐. ๐๐ ๐ฐ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐ ๐ญ๐ซ๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐ฐ๐ก๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐ค๐๐๐ฉ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ข๐ญ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐ข๐ง๐ ,” Madland emphasized.
๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐งโ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฐ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ: ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ
Continuing its groundbreaking initiative, Norway Chess Women returns with an equal prize fund, reinforcing its dedication to gender parity.
Defending champion and Womenโs World Champion GM Ju Wenjun leads the pack, followed by GM Lei Tingjie, GM Koneru Humpy, and GM Anna Muzychuk. New to the roster is IM Sara Khadem, replacing GM Pia Cramling.

๐๐๐ง๐๐ซ๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ง๐๐๐ข๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ค๐จ๐ ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ข๐ฆ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐๐ง๐๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ:
“๐๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฐ๐๐ฌ๐งโ๐ญ ๐ฆ๐๐๐ง๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ ๐ ๐จ๐ง๐-๐ญ๐ข๐ฆ๐ ๐๐๐ก๐ข๐๐ฏ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ. ๐๐ง๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ช๐ฎ๐๐ฅ ๐จ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ ๐ฌ๐จ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ข๐๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ง’๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ.”
Madland added:
“๐๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ ๐ข๐ฌ๐งโ๐ญ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ง ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌโ๐ข๐ญโ๐ฌ ๐๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ฌ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ ๐๐ฌ ๐ ๐ฐ๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐.”
๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ง๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐ฎ๐๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ & ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ณ๐ ๐ ๐ฎ๐ง๐
The 2025 Norway Chess tournament will follow a double round-robin format, where each player faces every opponent twice.
๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ฌ:
Time Control: 120 minutes for 40 moves, with a 10-second increment from move 41.
๐๐๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ฆ:
Classical win:๐ ๐ฉ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ
Classical loss: ๐ ๐ฉ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ
Draw: ๐ ๐ฉ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ญ ๐๐๐๐ก, ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐ง ๐๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐ซ๐ฆ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ญ๐ญ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐.๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐ฉ๐จ๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ.
๐๐ซ๐ข๐ณ๐ ๐ ๐ฎ๐ง๐: ๐ฐ
Total Prize Pool (Each Event): ๐,๐๐๐,๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ (~$๐๐๐,๐๐๐)
Winnerโs Prize: ๐๐๐,๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ (~$๐๐,๐๐๐)
Additionally, an open Swiss tournament will run parallel to the main event, providing a platform for emerging players.
๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ ๐๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ฅ ๐๐ข๐ค๐ ๐๐จ ๐๐ญ๐ก๐๐ซ
With its iconic matchups, elite participation, and unwavering commitment to classical chess, Norway Chess 2025 promises to be a grand spectacle. As Carlsen and Gukesh prepare to battle in their first classical showdown, chess fans worldwide are in for an unforgettable tournament.
Stay tuned as Stavanger transforms into the ultimate battleground for chess supremacy!

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