The Big Chess Inter-School Tournament returns to Mumbai on 4th & 5th July 2026

by Jyotsna Bhushan - 29/06/2026

The Big Chess Inter-School Tournament returns for its third edition on 4th and 5th July 2026 at Dublin Square, Phoenix Marketcity Mall, Mumbai. Open to school-going children up to 10th standard, the tournament promises exciting competition, attractive prizes, scholarships, and a chance to play a simul against a GM/IM. Registrations are now open, with limited spots available in each category. Read the full article to know all the details and register before entries close.

The Big Chess Inter-School Tournament is back!

After two successful editions that brought hundreds of young chess players together under one roof, the third edition of this beloved tournament returns to Dublin Square, Phoenix Marketcity Mall, Mumbai, on 4th and 5th July 2026. What began as a joint initiative by ChessBase India and Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai to revive the golden era of inter-school chess in the city has now grown into something even more special. This year, Chola Chess joins as a co-organiser for the first time, making the 2026 edition the most ambitious one yet.

Official poster of the tournament.

A look back at previous editions

The dream of reviving Mumbai's grand inter-school chess tradition became reality in 2024 with the first edition of The Big Chess Inter-School Tournament. The first edition saw 259 players compete across six categories, with the top finishers earning the opportunity to face GM Vidit Gujrathi in a thrilling simul. Vidit faced 16 young challengers simultaneously, and despite some nail-biting moments with the clock ticking down, he converted all 16 games into victories.

Vidit Gujrathi played a simul against 16 opponents at the end of the Big Chess Inter-school tournament 2024. | Video: ChessBase India

The second edition in May 2025 returned to Phoenix Marketcity and took things up a notch. A total of 306 players participated in this event. The top two finishers from each age category got the opportunity to play against GM Harshit Raja, India's 69th Grandmaster in a simul at the end of the tournament. The young challengers gave him a real fight, and Harshit finished with a 13-3 score.

GM Harshit Raja gave a thrilling Simul against 16 players last year. | Photo: Nehal Deshmukh

Each year, the tournament raises the bar and 2026 promises to be no different. If your child loves chess, or if you want them to experience the thrill of competitive play in a vibrant, energetic setting, this is the event not to be missed.

This is how the setup of the Inter-School Tournament looked last year! | Photo: Nehal Deshmukh

Venue

The tournament will be held at Dublin Square, Phoenix Marketcity Mall, Mumbai, a fantastic open venue that has hosted previous editions of the Big Chess camps and club events.

Who can participate?

The tournament is open to school-going children up to 10th standard, across six age categories (U-6, U-8, U-10, U-12, U-14 & U-16). Children from a lower age group may also choose to compete in a higher category, but must register for only one.

Check out the eligibility criteria.

Format

This is an 8-round Swiss System tournament played as per FIDE Rapid Play regulations.

Time Control: 25 minutes + 10 seconds increment from move 1

Default Time: 25 minutes

Tournament Schedule

Check out the tournament schedule.

What Are the Prizes?

Check out the prize structure.

The prize structure is exciting and rewards a wide range of finishers:

The top 3 in each category receive trophies
4th to 10th place finishers receive medals
The top 2 finishers in each category win a scholarship for entry into the National Schools Chess Championships or Nationals age category event (subject to eligibility criteria)
The top 2 finishers in each category get to play a simul against a GM/IM; one of the most special experiences any young chess player can have!

All participants will receive a digital certificate of participation.

How to register?

Entry Fee: Rs. 300 (non-refundable and non-transferable)

Each category is limited to 75 spots, so early registration is strongly recommended. Entries close on 3rd July 2026 or once spots are filled, whichever comes first. No spot entries will be allowed on the day. You can register using this link.

For any queries, reach out at aanchal@chessbase.in or call +91 89283 74667.

Register now

Check out the rules and regulations.

Two years. Two simuls. Hundreds of young players are discovering the joy of competitive chess. The third edition of The Big Chess Inter-School Tournament is set to add another unforgettable chapter to this story. Don't let your child miss it. Secure your spot before 3rd July!