Runwal Garden City Hosts International FIDE Rapid Chess Tournament on Independence Day

Mumbai, August 21, 2025: Independence Day celebrations at Runwal Garden City took on a unique flavour this year as the township played host to the International FIDE Rapid Chess Tournament, organised in collaboration with the Aryan Institute of Chess Excellence, Kalyan. The event brought together over 275 chess players, including some of India’s finest grandmasters and international masters, for an intense day of competition and community spirit.
 
The tournament was inaugurated by Arjuna Awardee Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay, alongside Saurabh Natu, CEO, Runwal Garden City, and Deepak Vaze, Founder, Aryan Institute. The players battled it out across nine Swiss League rounds, creating an atmosphere charged with focus, strategy and excitement. 

Paras Bhoir from Maharashtra clinched the first prize with 8/9 points, taking home INR 50,000 and a trophy. International Master Srijit Paul from West Bengal secured second place with INR 30,000 while Grandmaster Lakshman from Tamil Nadu was third with INR 15,000.

The tournament also celebrated the diversity of its participants by giving special recognition to the youngest competitor, a six-year-old, the oldest aged 80 and differently-abled players as well. A total of over INR 2 lakh worth of prize money and 43 trophies were awarded. 

Natu said, “We are delighted to host this prestigious tournament at Runwal Garden City. It reflects our vision of creating communities that celebrate talent, inclusivity and togetherness. Watching players across age groups and backgrounds compete with such passion was truly inspiring.” 

Thipsay said, “Tournaments like these are vital for the growth of chess in India. The dedication shown here was remarkable, and I commend Runwal Enterprises for creating such a professional platform for the sport.”

Supported by FIDE, AICF, MCA, TDCA and KTBS, the event not only showcased sporting excellence but also cemented Runwal Garden City’s growing role as a vibrant cultural and sporting hub that goes far beyond being just a township of homes.