Press & Media

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham successfully hosted the ‘Hindu Tamil Thisai – Checkmate 2026’ inter-school chess tournament at its Chennai Campus, Vengal, in Thiruvallur District. The prestigious event was organized in collaboration with Hindu Tamil Thisai and co-hosted with Velammal Nexus, with support from the Tamil Nadu State Chess Association, Kaba Chess Academy, and Ash Chess Hub.

The tournament was conducted with the objective of nurturing chess talent among school students and emphasizing the role of sports in holistic education. The event was inaugurated by the Thiruvallur District Collector, Mr. M. Prathap, I.A.S, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his inaugural address, he highlighted Tamil Nadu’s significant contribution to Indian chess and the growing popularity of the sport among students across both urban and rural areas.

Mr. I. B. Manikandan, Campus Director, and Dr. V. Jayakumar, Principal, also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of integrating academics, sports, and extracurricular activities to develop well-rounded individuals. Representatives from Hindu Tamil Thisai, along with a Velammal Chess Coach, were present at the event.

The one-day tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 500 students representing schools across Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Vellore, Ranipet, Cuddalore, and Chengalpattu districts. The competition was conducted in two categories — Junior (Classes 7, 8, and 9) and Senior (Classes 10, 11, and 12) — featuring intense matches that showcased strategic thinking, concentration, and sportsmanship.

Winners from both categories were awarded medals, certificates, and prizes by FIDE Master Saravi Anilkumar, Prime Minister’s Rashtriya Bal Sahitya Puraskar awardee and young chess player, along with Mr. I. B. Manikandan and Dr. V. Jayakumar, who joined the prize distribution ceremony. The event concluded with appreciation extended to students, parents, teachers, and organizing partners, reinforcing Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s commitment to excellence in academics and sports.