Prem Pandit
Mumbai: Abheek Bhatt from Mumbai (Open category) and WCM Nihira Kaul from Pune (Girls' category) delivered impressive performances to clinch the titles at the H2E Power Systems Maharashtra State Under-17 Chess Championship, held at Swami Vivekananda International School in Kandivali.
Abheek Bhatt Dominates Open Category
Representing Mumbai City, Abheek Bhatt played exceptionally well to secure the top spot with a maximum of 7 points. He was honored with a cash prize of ₹5,000. Arnav Mahesh Koli from Thane secured the runner-up position with 6.5 points, while Kush Ajay Agarwal from Mumbai Suburban had to settle for third place, also with 6.5 points. Agrawal Shravana from Thane finished fourth, and Tasin Rafiq Tadvi from Jalgaon took fifth place.
Nihira Kaul Tops Girls' Category
In a highly competitive girls' category, Nihira Kaul from Pune claimed the title with 6.5 points, bringing glory to her city. She secured the top prize of ₹5,000. Shriya G. Hippargi from Sangli finished second with 6.5 points, while AFM Maisha Parvez from Mumbai Suburban took third place, also with 6.5 points. Ishwari Jagdale finished fourth, and Prisha Margaj secured fifth place in this category.
Excellent Organization and Officiating
This prestigious tournament was organized by the Mumbai Suburban District Chess Association. The event concluded in the special presence of the Association's Secretary, Vitthal Madhav, and Treasurer, Prem Pandit. The competition was conducted in an exemplary and highly disciplined manner under the able supervision of Chief Referee Sandesh Nagarnaik and the precise guidance of assistant referees Harsh Pandit, Vaishali Samant, Yogesh Velaskar, Ganesh Hadwale, Madhu Sawant, Warin Gada, Kunal Sherlekar, and Dilip Mayekar. Cash prizes totaling ₹40,200 were awarded across both categories.