ORGANISED BY: All Odisha Chess Association (AOCA)
CONTACT PERSON: AOCA secretary Vivek Tibarewal (Mobile: 9439953866).

DESCRIPTION:
*     Unlike the past five editions, the high-profile tournament, carrying a total prize fund of Rs 19 lakhs, would feature competition in three categories this time.
*     Categories are: Elite (Rating 2000 and above), Platinum (Rating 1999 and below) and Premium (Rating 1599 and below).
*     A record number of 65 foreign players, including 21 Grandmasters would vie for titles.
*     A total of 122 players from 17 countries have already confirmed their entries for the Elite category, which would take place from May 24 to 31.
*     Besides the 21 GMs, two WGMs, 19 IMs and two WIMs would be seen in action in the Elite category.
*     The 10-round Elite category offers a total cash prize of Rs 11 lakhs, including Rs 3 lakhs for champion and Rs 2 lakhs for runner-up.
*     Georgia GM Mikheil Mchedlishvili with a rating of 2621 has been made the top seed.
*     GM Sandipan Chanda (2594), the highest-rated Indian in the fray, will start as the third seed.
*     Platinum, the middle category, has received 184 entries so far and it would take place from May 24 to 27.
*     As many as 147 players have already confirmed their entries for the Premium category, scheduled to be held from May 26 to 31.
*     Both the Platinum and Premium categories would be nine-round events, carrying total prize fund of Rs 4 lakhs each, including Rs 50,000 for winner.
*     Free food and AC accommodation would be provided to all outstation players.
*     The mega festival offers free entry to all GMs, WGMs, IMs and WIMs.
*     For others entry fee will very from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000.