Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar, will host the Chess Mahakumbh – International Conference on Social & Educational Chess from 14th to 16th January 2026 at its campus. The conference is being organised in association with the International Chess Federation (FIDE)* and the All India Chess Federation (AICF), marking a significant milestone for Indian chess and sports education.
This is the first time in India that such a large-scale global conference on social and educational chess is being hosted at a university campus. Eminent personalities from the world of chess, including senior officials of FIDE and AICF, grandmasters, administrators, educators, and researchers, will participate in the event. Chess experts and delegates from over 40 countries, along with more than 80 delegates from India, are expected to attend. The total number of participants will exceed 5,200, including 5,000+ players from across India.
Distinguished dignitaries scheduled to grace the occasion include Mr Arkady Dvorkovich, President, FIDE; Padma Vibhushan Shri Viswanathan Anand, Deputy President, FIDE and five-time World Chess Champion; Ms Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair, FIDE; Mr Nitin Narang, President, AICF; Mr Dev A Patel, Hon. Secretary, AICF; and Mr Ranjan Mohanty, Member, FIDE Event Commission.
The conference will focus on the role of chess in education, social development, cognitive growth, and inclusive learning, reinforcing the growing global recognition of chess as a tool for character building and mental discipline.
Over the years, KIIT and KISS have consistently promoted sports as an integral part of education, investing in world-class infrastructure, structured training programmes, and athlete support systems. From grassroots development to international representation, students of KIIT and KISS have brought laurels to the institution and the country across multiple disciplines, including volleyball, rugby, athletics, chess, and indigenous sports.
Hosting Chess Mahakumbh reflects KIIT’s sustained commitment to integrating sports, education, and social impact, and its growing role as a hub for international sporting and academic collaboration.
