A Rajya Sabha member highlights the role of chess in improving concentration

Rajya Sabha Member Bhashyam Rama Krishna and Grandmaster Koneru Humpy inaugurated the Chess Club at the Chalapathi University campus in Guntur on Saturday.

Chalapathi University has launched a chess club to promote strategic thinking and intellectual development among students. Rajya Sabha member Bhashyam Rama Krishna and Grandmaster Koneru Humpy inaugurated the club at the university campus in Guntur on Saturday.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rama Krishna described it as the institution’s first chess club and said it could serve as a model for other institutions. He emphasized that chess improved concentration, analytical thinking and decision-making skills.

Pro-Chancellor Y. Sujith Kumar said the university has included chess in its curriculum and provided dedicated facilities for students to practice. Chancellor YV Anjaneyulu said equal importance was given to academics and sports, while Ms Humpy assured support for the development of chess activities. Vice-Chancellor BV Chowdary emphasized the role of play in cultivating patience, focus and strategic thinking.

As part of the event, an All India Open rapid chess tournament was organized which attracted 242 players from across the country, including around 96 international level players.

Dhruvesh Dondapati became the champion, followed by Perecherla Hariram Sai Krishna in second and Siva Pawan Teja U. in third. The fourth and fifth positions were secured by K. Raju and R. Aditya.

The guests distributed cash prizes totaling ₹ 1,11,999 and certificates to the winners and runners-up and congratulated them. They also wished them success in the upcoming national and international competitions.

Published – 10 Oct 2026 20:54 IST