The chess world will turn its attention to Pune from April 13 to 24, as the city prepares to host the fifth leg of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2024-25. The event will bring together some of the world’s most formidable female chess talents, including a strong contingent of Indian Grandmasters who continue to assert India’s growing dominance in women’s chess.
The Maharashtra Chess Association will organize the prestigious tournament, in partnership with FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs). The Grand Prix series plays a crucial role in shaping the future of women’s chess by offering valuable points toward qualification for the Women’s Candidates Tournament, the pathway to the Women’s World Championship.
Indian Grandmasters Take Center Stage
India will field a powerful line-up, led by current Women’s World Rapid Champion Grandmaster Koneru Humpy. Humpy, one of the most decorated chess players in Indian history, continues to inspire younger generations with her consistent international performances.
Joining her are Olympiad gold medalists and fellow Grandmasters Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali Rameshbabu, and Divya Deshmukh. All four players bring a mix of experience, tactical sharpness, and fighting spirit to the table. Their participation in this high-stakes tournament reflects India’s rising influence in women’s chess.
Divya Deshmukh, the youngest among the Indian participants, enters the tournament as a wild card. Despite being an International Master, Divya has already made waves on the global stage with her fearless style and strong finishes in several top-tier events. Her inclusion in the Grand Prix promises fresh excitement and a chance to further test her mettle against seasoned Grandmasters.
A Global Chess Showdown
The Pune leg of the Women’s Grand Prix won’t just showcase Indian talent. The tournament will feature a powerful international roster, including China’s Grandmaster Zhu Jiner, one of the top young prospects from the reigning Olympic and World champion nation.
Joining her will be Polina Shuvalova from Russia, Alina Kashlinskaya of Poland, Salimova Nurgyul from Bulgaria, Munguntuul Batkhuyag of Mongolia, and Salome Melia of Georgia. Each of these players has carved out a formidable reputation in international chess, and their presence guarantees a fiercely contested tournament.
The FIDE Grand Prix series selects 14 elite players based on their performances in previous rounds, while six wild cards complete the tournament field. This format ensures a mix of consistency and emerging talent, making the competition dynamic and unpredictable.
Pune Becomes a Global Chess Destination
By hosting the Women’s Grand Prix, Pune further strengthens its status as a premier chess venue in India. Over the years, the city has fostered a vibrant chess culture with numerous grassroots programs, school initiatives, and international tournaments. The Maharashtra Chess Association has played a pivotal role in this development, and its successful bid to host the Grand Prix reflects the association’s commitment to chess excellence.
The organizers have confirmed that the tournament will take place in a world-class venue equipped with top-tier facilities. Fans will have access to live commentary, analysis, and streaming through various platforms, enabling chess lovers across the globe to follow the action in real time.
The event will also include chess workshops, interactions with players, and community engagement programs to inspire the next generation of chess enthusiasts.
What’s at Stake?
The Women’s Grand Prix series holds significant importance in the global chess calendar. Players earn Grand Prix points based on their performance at each leg, and these points determine qualification for the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament. The Candidates Tournament, in turn, decides who will challenge the reigning Women’s World Chess Champion.
With stakes this high, every game in the Pune leg will carry enormous pressure and strategic depth. Players must balance risk and safety, aggression and defense, stamina and focus — all while navigating some of the world’s sharpest minds over the chessboard.
Spotlight on the Indian Stars
Koneru Humpy, known for her deep positional understanding and calm temperament, remains a consistent performer on the international circuit. She brings both leadership and firepower to India’s challenge. Her vast experience in World Championships and previous Grand Prix events gives her a vital edge.
Harika Dronavalli, another seasoned Grandmaster, thrives in high-pressure formats. Her ability to play sharp, tactical positions makes her a tough opponent for anyone. Harika has long been a pillar of India’s women’s chess, and her presence in Pune elevates the tournament’s profile further.
Vaishali Rameshbabu, sister of GM R Praggnanandhaa, has stepped out of her brother’s shadow with strong performances in national and international tournaments. Her aggressive style and recent title as a full Grandmaster mark her as one of India’s most promising talents. She enters the Pune leg with momentum and hunger for victory.
Divya Deshmukh, at just 18, has already claimed accolades that many veterans envy. Her victory in the 2023 Asian Continental Women’s Championship and several national titles make her a dark horse in the tournament. Her inclusion as a wild card reflects both her potential and popularity in the Indian chess community.
A Boost for Women’s Chess in India
Hosting the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix in Pune sends a powerful message. India no longer just competes in global chess — it leads and shapes its future. The tournament gives Indian fans a chance to witness elite women’s chess live and up close. More importantly, it inspires young girls across the country to consider chess not only as a sport but as a viable professional pursuit.
The event arrives at a time when Indian chess enjoys unprecedented attention. With players like Praggnanandhaa, Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and Nihal Sarin making headlines in open formats, Indian women are equally making waves. The Pune Grand Prix will highlight the depth and diversity of Indian chess across genders and generations.
Final Thoughts
From April 13 to 24, Pune will transform into a battlefield of minds. As queens and knights clash over 64 squares, the world will watch. The stakes go beyond trophies and titles — they touch careers, dreams, and the very future of women’s chess.With a powerful Indian line-up, international heavyweights, and an electrifying atmosphere, the fifth leg of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix promises world-class chess action and lasting impact. Fans can expect thrilling battles, surprising upsets, and masterful strategies as some of the world’s finest players fight for glory in Pune.
