Chennai, July 3, 2025 — The South Zone Series 2 of the SOG Grandmasters Series Championship concluded in Chennai on Wednesday, drawing over one lakh participants from across Chennai, Puducherry, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Held over two days (July 1-2) at The Leela, the event showcased some of India’s top talents in chess and rummy, alongside growing national interest in mind sports.
The championship’s closing ceremony saw the presence of former Indian cricket team captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth,world rapid chess champion Koneru Humpy, and Rajya SabhaMP P. Wilson, who praised the event for promoting cognitive excellence and youth engagement in strategic gaming.
In the Indian Chess Masters (ICM) category, Sethuraman S.P. took home the gold medal in the men’s division, followed by Arnav Maheshwari (silver) and Pradeep Kumar R.A. (bronze). In the women’s division, Keerti Shree Reddy clinched the gold, with Kanishka S and Pradiksha P S winning silver and bronze respectively.
In the Indian Rummy Grandmasters – South Zone 2, Yuvaraj R emerged as the champion, while Makesh Muthuvel and Murugesan Kannadhasan finished second and third. The fourth to sixth positions went to Karuppaiya Kaliyaperumal, Kolanjinathan Raja, and Jayakumar.
Speaking at the event, Srikkanth emphasized the relevance of mind sports in today’s digital and competitive landscape. “Cricket taught me that the real battle is often in the mind. Mental sharpness, focus, and resilience are as important off the field as on it,” he said.
Chess grandmaster Koneru Humpy noted the growing popularity of chess among Indian youth. “It’s encouraging to witness so many young players with serious talent and commitment. This wave of enthusiasm is helping make chess an integral part of our national identity,” she said.
In the event’s light, key members of SOGF and several dignitaries were present, including, Adv. Nandan Jha, Founder and Advisor, SOG Federation, Mr. Ashok Dhyanchand, Vice President, SOG Federation, Mr. Shankar Aggarwal, President, SOG Federation, Adv. Nandan Jha, Founder and Advisor, SOG Federation, Mr. Gaurav Dhyanchand, Tournament Director and Joint Secretary SOGF and other dignitaries across the country
Mr. Shankar Aggarwal, President, SOG Federation, highlighted the broader vision: “The rapid growth of mind games in online gaming reflects the incredible curiosity and strategic spirit of India’s youth.” He added, “At SOGF, we believe that skill-based mind sports like chess are not only shaping sharper minds but also building a vibrant, competitive community that stands at the forefront of the global gaming revolution. Our mission is to provide every talented player regardless of background or ability the opportunity to excel, compete, and represent India on the world stage.”
The resounding success of the SOG Grandmasters Series Championship South Zone Series 2 stands as a testament to India’s rapidly evolving landscape of mind sports and skill-based gaming. With overwhelming participation, inspiring addresses from sporting legends, and a strong commitment to nurturing talent, the event has set new standards for competitive excellence and inclusivity. As esports and mind games continue to capture the imagination of India’s youth, the SOG Federation remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of champions and reinforcing India’s position as a global powerhouse in cognitive sports. The journey from Chennai marks not just a celebration of winners but a bold step forward in building a vibrant, intellectually driven sporting culture forthe nation.
