More than 800 school chess players set for Dahisar championship

More than 800 young chess players from over 500 schools are expected at Rustomjee Cambridge International School in Dahisar (West) for the SBI Life Maharashtra State Schools Chess Championship 2026.

The tournament will run in two phases, from November 4 to 6 and November 13 to 15. It has separate Open and Girls sections in Under-7, Under-9, Under-11, Under-13, Under-15 and Under-17 categories.

Players will contest seven rounds under the Swiss League format, with a time control of 60 minutes plus a 30-second increment for every move. More than 400 FIDE-rated players have registered, and all 12 categories will be FIDE-rated.

The top two players in each category will represent Maharashtra at the National Schools Chess Championship, scheduled in Ahmedabad in December. The event also offers total cash prizes of ₹1.2 lakh, along with 36 trophies and 120 medals.

International Arbiter P. B. Bhilare will serve as chief arbiter. Selected games will be broadcast using DGT electronic boards, with live commentary and analysis planned.