Mumbai, 02^nd July 2022

The first ever Chess Olympiad Torch Relay reached Maharashtra on the 14^th day since its launch in Delhi on 19^th June. The final leg of the Torch Relay in Maharashtra had a grand reception at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai this evening.

Earlier today the Torch Relay was received in Nagpur and Pune in the presence of Grandmasters of the respective cities.

At the key event held in Mumbai, Grandmasters Pravin Thipsay, Abhijit Kunte, Soumya Swaminathan were present along with officials of Department of Sports, State Chess Association, chess enthusiasts and budding chess players.

Addressing the event, Grand Master Abhijit Kunte expressed his happiness on India being the first country where the torch relay has begun its journey. “For the first time ever, a torch relay has been introduced in Chess Olympiad; we are very happy that the torch relay has begun from India,” he proudly said. He also mentioned that the Government's initiative is creating a chess culture in the country and is also encouraging children to play chess. “There are many chess events being organized in the country,” he added.

Working President, Maharashtra Chess Association, Siddharth Mayur said that from now on, the Chess Olympiad Torch will begin its journey from India whenever the Chess Olympiad is to be held anywhere around the world.

The Chess Olympiad Torch was given a traditional welcome by the state level chess players. Central Bureau of Communication, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting organised cultural performance highlighting how chess originated from India and the 75 years of India’s Independence. Artistes also performed Nukkad Natak on achievements of India with a focus on the infrastructural development, women empowerment and initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

As part of the celebration, 30 budding Chess players got an opportunity to play against International Masters

As it reached Mumbai, the Chess Olympiad Torch was taken to prominent locations in the city.  

Chess Olympiad Torch at the Gateway of India

Mumbai to Goa...

The grand reception of the Chess Olympiad Torch Relay in Mumbai concluded with the formal hand over of the Torch by Grandmaster Abhijit Kunte to Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay

The Torch is set for its onward journey for the next leg of relay in Goa.

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DL/PK

 

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