Swaraj Mishra Clinches NextGen Open Rapid in Nagpur with Near-Perfect Score

A Decisive Performance in Nagpur

Thirteen-year-old Swaraj Mishra claimed victory at the NextGen Open One Day Rapid Chess Tournament in Nagpur, scoring an impressive 7.5 out of 8 points across eight rounds. The rapid-format event, part of the NextGenChess tournament series organised by student co-founders Shanaya Shelkar and Varad Gawande, drew strong participation from local players across multiple age categories.

Swaraj Mishra’s near-flawless run was followed closely by Sahejveer Singh Maras and Sai Sharma, who each accumulated 7 points out of 8. Harsh Dayal completed the notable results list with a perfect 5 out of 5 in his category.

Series Growth and Structure

NextGenChess has emerged as Nagpur’s second-largest non-FIDE tournament series since its launch in May 2026. The initiative, run entirely by students and recognised by the Chess Association of Nagpur, began with 148 participants and grew to 258 entries within five months, driven by inclusive brackets for under-7s, veterans, and specially-abled players.

The rapid format featured eight rounds divided into two heats of four, with each player allocated 10 minutes plus a five-second increment per move. Participants paid Rs 500 for the air-conditioned venue or Rs 300 for the non-AC hall.

Prize Money and Challenges

The Open and Veteran 50+ categories shared a prize pool of Rs 10,850, with the Open winner receiving Rs 1,500 and a trophy. However, the series has faced significant sponsorship hurdles. Late date confirmations and last-minute brochure distribution meant founding sponsors from earlier editions could not be approached in time, and efforts to secure new backers fell short. The founders ultimately funded the event themselves, with support from Shanaya Shelkar’s father, who works at NTPC.

What’s Next

The next edition of the NextGenChess tournament is slated to take place in Pune, continuing the student-run series that has become a vital platform for players aged 20 to 45 and younger categories who have often found fewer opportunities in the traditional tournament circuit.

Highlights

• Swaraj Mishra won the Open category with 7.5/8 points
• Sahejveer Singh Maras and Sai Sharma finished joint second on 7/8
• Harsh Dayal scored a perfect 5/5 in his bracket
• Prize money for Open and Veteran 50+ categories totalled Rs 10,850
• Self-funded after sponsorship fell through
• Next event planned for Pune

Source

This report is based on information published by Sportstar (The Hindu) — Chess.

Official source: https://sportstar.thehindu.com/chess/nextgenchess-nagpur-shanaya-shelkar-varad-gawande-chess-tournament-series/article71640001.ece