27th December 2024, South Point School, Barsapara, Guwahati
The 8th edition of the prestigious South Point School Guwahati India Open International Rating Chess Tournament progressed with intense competition on its second day, followed by thrilling developments on Day 3. With 396 players from across the country participating in this 10-round Swiss League FIDE-rated event under classical time control, the tournament has become a highlight of India’s chess calendar. The ₹10 lakh prize pool has further amplified the excitement among players and spectators.
Day 3 began with the ceremonial inauguration of the 5th round. Senior journalisMagazine initiated the games by making the first move on Board 1, followed by Nayan Kumar Datta and aur ek unka naam nhi pata Founder of Mind Sports Foundation.
The third day witnessed several upsets, but the spotlight firmly belonged to International Master (IM) Mayank Chakraborty. Delivering crushing victories in Rounds 3 and 4 with his characteristic dashing style, he advanced to Round 5 with a perfect score, tied with 12 other players.

IM Mayank, a proud student of South Point School, continues to inspire young chess enthusiasts both in Guwahati and across the nation to consider chess as a viable career path. His achievements are a testament to the growing talent pool in Indian chess.
In Round 5, IM Mayank is set to face another promising youngster from Guwahati, Tanmay Rajbongshi. This much-anticipated match has captured the attention of chess fans, who eagerly await the outcome of this high-stakes clash.
The tournament serves as a tribute to Bharat Ratna Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the 10th Prime Minister of India, coinciding with his birth anniversary. Organized by the Assam Chess Club and South Point School Chess Academy, the event reflects their commitment to fostering chess culture in India.
International Arbiter Biswajit Bharadwaj continues to ensure the smooth and fair conduct of all matches as the Chief Arbiter.