International FIDE Rating Rapid & Blitz Chess Tournament 2025
Visakhapatnam hosts a grand celebration of chess excellence
Under the auspices of the Andhra Chess Association (ACA) and with the approval of the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the International FIDE Rating Rapid & Blitz Open Chess Tournament–2025 was officially inaugurated at the prestigious Waltair Club, Visakhapatnam. Players and chess enthusiasts from across the region converged for this two-day festival of fast chess, with competitors ranging from promising youngsters to seasoned veterans.
Inauguration & Distinguished Guests
The opening ceremony and press meet were attended by an eminent set of guests who helped formally launch the tournament:
Sri Shankar Bharati Bagchi, IPS — Commissioner of Police (who inaugurated the event).
Smt. Alana Meenakshi — Women FIDE Master & International Master (guest of honour).
Sri Dasari Suryaprakash Rao — Vice-Chancellor, D S N L University.
Sri R. Venkateswara Rao — Chairman, RVR Group.
Sri Seshagiri Rao — President, Waltair Club.
Sri C. Bal Satish — Secretary, Waltair Club.
Sri Kankatala Mullikarjuna Rao — (local dignitary).
The inauguration was jointly conducted by the Commissioner of Police and the Vice-Chancellor, while ACA President Sri A. Suresh presided over the gathering. The Commissioner publicly assured full cooperation from the police department for chess activities in Visakhapatnam, warmly welcomed by organisers and parents. The VC remarked on the delightful sight of a four-year-old contender playing against a 70-plus veteran — a moment that captured the spirit and intergenerational appeal of the event.
High-Profile Round-3 Visitors
During the third round, Sri Ketan Garg, IAS (Commissioner, GVMC) and Dr. Suyash Chavan, IFS (Regional Passport Officer) visited the playing hall. They interacted with players — including international guests from federations such as England — and encouraged organisers to expand chess into GVMC schools; the Commissioner responded positively to the proposal.
Prize Distribution: A Grand Finale
The tournament’s final day featured a grand prize distribution ceremony. Awards were presented by the following dignitaries:
Sri M. V. Ramana — Founder & Chairman, CMR Group (chief presenter).
Sri A. Suresh — President, Andhra Chess Association.
Sri K. V. V. Sarma — Chief Advisor, Andhra Chess Association.
Tournament Highlights & Champions
Both the Rapid and Blitz events produced several high-quality games, dramatic finishes and promising performances across age groups.
Rapid — Top 3 (Final Standings)
1. Sathwik D S S U — 8 points.(10,500/-)
2. Sravyasree Bheemarasetty — 8 points.(8,000/-)
3. Gorli Nyna — 8 points.(7,000/-)
Blitz — Top 3 (Final Standings)
1. Aditya Varun Gampa — 8 points.(5,000/-)
2. Baid Arav — 8 points.(3,000/-)
3. Sathwik D S S U — 8 points.(2,000/-)
Category Recognition & Grassroots Impact
By awarding prizes across many divisions — from U7 up to Seniors and special district/club awards — the ACA reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development. The inclusive format encouraged participation by very young learners and senior enthusiasts alike, strengthening the local chess ecosystem.
Special Thanks (Acknowledgements)
The organising committee extend heartfelt gratitude to:
Sri K. V. V. Sarma garu — Chief Advisor, Andhra Chess Association — the one-man army behind many initiatives.
Sri Suresh garu — President, Andhra Chess Association.
Sri M. V. Rao garu — Vice-President, Andhra Chess Association.
Smt. Neelima garu — Administrative Officer, Andhra Chess Association.
NM Phani Kumar — International Arbiter & Chief Arbiter.
Sri Vinnakota Balakrishna Rao garu — for his valued contributions.
Sri S. Manikanta Rao — Tournament Director — for exemplary leadership in managing logistics, scheduling and player coordination.
Special appreciation also goes to the print, electronic and digital media for their wonderful coverage throughout the tournament, ensuring the event reached a wide audience and inspired many.
Additional thanks to sponsors, volunteers, arbiters, and the Waltair Club management for their exemplary cooperation.
On behalf of the All Visakha Chess Association, warm thanks were extended to all distinguished guests, players, parents and supporters, with a special note of appreciation to the Waltair Club management for their co-operation in staging the event.