The tournament boasts an impressive average rating of 2711, making it the strongest classical chess competition ever held on Indian soil. The spotlight is on young Indian talents Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, who will face international chess luminaries like Parham Maghsoodloo, Levon Aronian, and others. This event also coincides with the 54th birthday of Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand (the 11^th of December), adding to its significance.

Indian chess has witnessed unprecedented growth, both in viewership and the number of top-tier players. This is evident as India is set to have four representatives at the 2024 Candidates Tournament. The Chennai Masters 2023 not only serves as a qualifier for this prestigious event but also celebrates the rise of Indian chess on the global stage.

The player roster includes notable names like Parham Maghsoodloo (2742), Arjun Erigaisi (2727), and Levon Aronian (2723), among others. The tournament will unfold over seven days, starting at 3 p.m. IST daily, with the final round scheduled a bit earlier on December 21.

The total prize pool stands at Rs. 50 lakh (US$60,000), with the first-place winner receiving Rs. 15 lakh (US$18,000). The games will be played with a time control of 90 minutes for the entire game plus a 30-second increment per move.

The Leela Palace Hotel in Chennai will host the event, offering a luxurious setting for both the players and the tournament. Additionally, renowned chess commentators Anish Giri and Sopiko Guramishvili will join the broadcast team, adding their unique insights and making the event even more engaging for chess fans worldwide.

Let’s witness together chess history in the making at the Chennai Masters 2023, a landmark event in Indian chess history.