The Quantbox Chennai Grand Masters, India’s most prestigious classical chess tournament, has announced a partnership with BookMyShow, the online ticket booking platform,.
The Hyatt Regency Chennai will host the event’s third edition from August 6 to 15. The 2025 edition, which features 20 players in the Masters and Challengers categories, sets an additional record for the competition with a prize pool of INR 1 crore as competitors chase FIDE Circuit points required to qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament.
The event, hosted by MGD1 and sponsored by Quantbox, will be divided into two categories: Masters and Challengers. The Masters field includes world prominent figures and Olympiad champions including as Anish Giri, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, Nihal Sarin, Jorden Van Foreest, Liang Awonder, Vincent Keymer, Ray Robson, Vladimir Fedoseev, and Pranav V, who advances after winning the Challengers in 2024. Tickets for general admission will be available through BookMyShow, with prices beginning at INR 750. VIP tickets, priced at INR 3,500, provide full-day access and complimentary high-tea snacks, guaranteeing spectators have a premium watching experience.
This year, fans can expect an enhanced experience, including access to exclusive merchandise, interactive fan zones, and the opportunity to see some of the world’s best players up close. The facility is divided into two sections: the commentary hall, which has public and VIP seats, a live commentary stage, and fan activities, and the playing hall, which has an audience stand that allows viewers to watch the players in action. All spectators will also benefit from live expert commentary to enhance their understanding of the games.
GM Srinath Narayanan, VP of MGD1, said, “The Quantbox Chennai Grand Masters has quickly established itself as one of the world’s most significant classical tournaments,” said . “It brings together a field of extraordinary depth, where India’s brightest talents battle established global stars. With FIDE Circuit points and Candidates qualification on the line, this year’s edition is not just a test of skill, but it’s a pivotal event in the world chess calendar. Our goal is to make Chennai a permanent fixture for elite chess and a place where future champions are forged.”
The Challengers category returns as a platform for India’s emerging chess stars, including Karthikeyan Murali, Vaishali R, and Adhiban Baskaran. The winning prize is INR 7 lakh and a Masters berth in 2026. The Masters champion earns INR 25 lakh, with FIDE Circuit points available for 2026 Candidates qualification.
GM Arjun Erigaisi said, “Playing such a high-stakes tournament at home is always special. As the top-rated player here, I know the expectations are high, but the field this year is extremely competitive, and every game will demand my absolute best. Events like the Quantbox Chennai Grand Masters are vital, not just for players chasing global goals, but also for building a stronger chess culture and inspiring the next generation of Indian talent.”
The 2025 edition intends to give an unparalleled opportunity for both players and spectators, with live streaming available on famous chess YouTube channels, further cementing Chennai’s status as India’s chess capital.
