Acropolis Mall Presents the Second Interschool Chess Competition 2024 in Collaboration with Bengal Chess Association

More than 125 students from 50 schools participated in the competition at Acropolis Mall today. Some of the eminent schools include Don Bosco School , St. Xavier’s Collegiate School , Mahadevi Birla High School, Lakshmipat Singhania Academy, DPS Ruby Park, South Point High School, Calcutta International School, South City International, Loreto House, Heritage School, La Martiniere for Girls School, and La Martiniere for Boys.
At a formal event at Acropolis Mall, esteemed personalities like Shri Pranab Bardhan, an eminent chess player and Asian Games gold medalist (Jakarta, 2018); Shri Atanu Lahiri, International Master, Commonwealth Chess Champion, and CEO of the Bengal Chess Association; and Subhadip Basu, GM of Acropolis Mall, Mr. Krishna Jha, Operation s Head of Acropolis Mall presented trophies to the winners. The presence of Shri Santanu Lahiri, President of the Bengal Chess Association; Shri Antarip Roy, Secretary of the Bengal Chess Association; shantanu lahiri, President of Bengal Chess Association and Vice President Shri sabyasanchi Tripathi added grace to the occasion.
An engrossing seven-round FIDE Swiss League tournament unfolded, offering students an opportunity to showcase their strategic prowess. The event operated on a first-come, first-served basis, exclusively for school students.Anshuman Dey from Frank Anthony public school with 6 points out of seven rounds, Shreeyansh Kejriwal from Lakshipath Singhania with 6 points, and Rihansh Pandey from Calcutta International School with 6 Points won the top three prizes, respectively, in the individual category. The coveted Best School prize was awarded to 1st lakshmipath singhania academy – 17.5 points
2nd south point – 13.5 points
3rd st. Xaviers collegiate school – 13.5 points. Additionally, a total of 40 trophies were presented to deserving winners in age category.”Chess is a sport that sharpens cognitive thinking and critical analysis skills. It holds immense value for students, especially in the digital era. Acropolis Mall hosted the first interschool chess competition in collaboration with the Bengal Chess Association last year, and this year, we’re hosting it again due to the overwhelming response from schools. We thank the Bengal Chess Association for choosing Acropolis Mall as their partner. It gives us immense satisfaction to witness children deeply engrossed in contemplating their next move against their opponents on the chequerboard. Such mind sports empower children with enhanced focus and mental acumen—prerequisites for success in academics. It is crucial to encourage children to participate in chess and other games that help them excel in life in this era of virtual engagement and social media trends,” said Subhadip Basu, GM, Acropolis Mall.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Atanu Lahiri, CEO of the Bengal Chess Association, said, “2nd Invitation School Chess Championship Acropolis Mall is a unique event. The matches are played in a mix of festive and competitive spirit. Through this tournament, the game of chess has found a new venue, at a public Shopping Mall instead of being confined in Closed door venues.
We thank Merlin Group and the authorities of the Merlin Group for hosting this event. ”
About Bengal Chess Association:
The Bengal Chess Association is the parent body for conducting chess activities in the state of West Bengal. Formed in 2012, the Bengal Chess Association (BCA) is affiliated with the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the apex body of chess in India, as of 18th November 2012. The BCA is responsible for conducting, selecting, and supporting chess players for nationals in all age groups and senior categories, promoting chess in all districts and educational institutions in West Bengal, and coordinating chess activities and tournaments throughout the state.
About Acropolis Mall:
Acropolis Mall, a state-of-the-art retail and entertainment landmark in Kolkata, boasts a collection of over 100 renowned brands spanning categories such as apparel, electronics, consumer durables, gadgets, jewelry, luggage, cosmetics, food & beverages, salons, and more. The mall provides a diverse retail experience, highlighted by its four-screen multiplex, spacious food court, fine dining restaurants, and a family and children’s entertainment zone.
Developed by Merlin Group, a leading real estate conglomerate in India, Acropolis Mall was inaugurated on 25th September 2015. It is an iconic architectural masterpiece with an elegant elevation. With a sprawling area of 4.50 lakh sq. ft., adorned by an elegant glass façade, the mall accommodates a five-level parking facility and receives over 1.20 lakh visitors weekly. Acropolis Mall has garnered numerous accolades, including the “Most Admired Shopping Centre of the Year (East)” in 2018 and the “Best Retail Project of the Year 2018-19” awards. It is also recognized for its energy conservation initiatives and commitment to responsible architecture.
Over the years, Acropolis Mall has emerged as a hub for captivating events, fashion shows, cultural festivals, and film premieres. Its community-oriented initiatives, such as old clothing donation drives for the underprivileged and support for self-help groups, underscore its dedication to social responsibility.



