Gandhinagar to Host Late Ishan Dave Memorial All India Open Chess Tournament

Gandhinagar Jilla Chess Association is organizing the Late Ishan Subhashbhai Dave Memorial All India Open Chess Tournament on January 18, 2026, at Government Community Hall, opposite the Police Station, “G” Road, Sector- 7, Gandhinagar. The tournament is expected to witness the participation of several renowned chess players from across the country.

The tournament will be held in both Open and Junior categories, and all players are required to report by 8:00 AM on January 18, 2026. Each round will have a time control of 30 minutes per player (1 hour total). The number of rounds will be decided by the arbiter on the basis of the number of participants.

For the Junior category, January 1, 2026, will be the cut-off date to determine age eligibility. Participants are required to carry valid age proof. A player may choose to play in a higher age category but not in a lower one. In case of disputes, the decision of the Arbiter or Association will be final. All players must bring their own chess set, and are encouraged to bring their own chess clock as well.

A total prize fund of ₹1,00,000 has been announced, along with trophies, medals, and certificates. Cash prizes will be awarded in different age categories – Under 9, 11, 13, 16, and Open – with the top prize in the Open category being ₹10,000. All participants will receive digital certificates after the completion of the tournament.

The entry fee is ₹700. Players must make an online payment and fill out the entry form through the official QR code. A copy of the payment proof must be sent via WhatsApp to Mr. Pankajbhai Pancholi at 8200281225. Entry is non-refundable and will close on January 10, 2026, or earlier if the venue capacity is reached.

Bank Details for Entry Fee:
Name: Gandhinagar Jilla Chess Association
Bank: Canara Bank, Gandhinagar GH-4 Sector-16
Account No.: 70802010007137
IFSC: CNRB0002381

The organizers have also arranged complimentary lunch at 11:00 AM and tea/coffee at 3:30 PM for all players on the tournament day. Parents can purchase meal and tea/coffee passes for ₹150 per person. For registration, they can contact Mr. Parth Shah (63521 66143) or Mr. Jeriel Evans (70160 91961).

For outstation players, free dormitory accommodation will be provided to the first 50 participants who register in advance. For registration, they can contact Mr. Parth Shah (63521 66143) or Mr. Jeriel Evans (70160 91961).

Travel to the venue is convenient with regular direct buses available from Ahmedabad via Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (S.T). Location QR is as follows..

Important Notice: Parents will not be allowed inside the playing hall during matches to ensure smooth conduct of the tournament. Any violation of discipline will be dealt with strictly by the Association.

For more information, participants may contact:

• Mr. Shaileshbhai Nayak (Secretary of Gandhinagar District Chess Association): 99099 40612
• Mr. Jeriel Evans: 70160 91961                                     

         Location QR                                                           Registration QR

Shailesh Nayak ( Secretary )
Gandhinagar Jilla Chess Association,Gandhinagar