Chennai Grand Masters 2025: A Premier Chess Tournament with Record Prize Pool
Chennai Grand Masters Returns with Exciting Features
The Chennai Grand Masters, renowned as India's top classical chess tournament, is set to make a grand comeback for its third edition from August 6 to 15 at the Hyatt Regency Chennai. This year, the event boasts its largest field and prize pool to date, featuring 20 competitors in both the Masters and Challengers categories, with a staggering ₹1 crore up for grabs. Participants will be vying for crucial FIDE Circuit points that are essential for qualifying for the 2026 Candidates Tournament.
Organized by MGD1, the tournament will be divided into two segments: Masters and Challengers. The Masters category will showcase an impressive lineup of international stars and Olympiad champions, including Anish Giri, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, Nihal Sarin, Jorden Van Foreest, Liang Awonder, Vincent Keymer, Ray Robson, Vladimir Fedoseev, and Pranav V, who is stepping up after his victory in the Challengers last year.
This year's event promises an enhanced experience for attendees, featuring exclusive merchandise, interactive fan zones, and the opportunity to observe some of the world's elite players up close. The venue will be organized into two distinct areas: the commentary hall, which includes general and VIP seating, a live commentary stage, and fan engagement activities; and the playing hall, where spectators can watch the matches live. All attendees will benefit from expert commentary to enrich their understanding of the games.
According to GM Srinath Narayanan, VP of MGD1, “The Chennai Grand Masters has rapidly become one of the most significant classical tournaments globally. It unites a remarkable field where India’s top talents compete against established international stars. With FIDE Circuit points and Candidates qualification at stake, this edition is not merely a test of skill but a crucial event in the chess calendar. Our aim is to establish Chennai as a permanent hub for elite chess and a breeding ground for future champions.”
The Challengers category, which debuted last year, returns to showcase India's promising emerging players. Notable participants include Karthikeyan Murali, Leon Mendonca, Vaishali R, Harika Dronavalli, Abhimanyu Puranik, Aryan Chopra, Adhiban Baskaran, Iniyan P, Diptayan Ghosh, and Pranesh M.
The champion of the Masters category will receive ₹25 Lakhs, while the second and third places will earn ₹15 Lakhs and ₹10 Lakhs, respectively. The winner of the Challengers will take home ₹7 Lakhs and secure a spot in the 2026 Masters. Additionally, the tournament offers FIDE Circuit points, with the winner earning 24.5 points towards the 2026 Candidates qualification. In the event of joint winners, each will receive 22.3 points, while the second and third places will earn 17.8 and 15.6 points, respectively.
GM Arjun Erigaisi expressed, “Competing in such a high-stakes tournament at home is always a unique experience. As the top-rated player, I feel the pressure, but this year’s competition is incredibly tough, and I must give my all in every match. Events like the Chennai Grand Masters are crucial not only for players pursuing global ambitions but also for fostering a robust chess culture and inspiring the next generation of Indian talent.”
The 2025 edition is set to provide a world-class experience for both players and fans, with live streaming available on popular chess YouTube channels, further solidifying Chennai's status as the chess capital of India.