Teen Prodigy Stuns Chess World: Hriday Maniar Draws Slovak Grandmaster in Mumbai

The opening of the Aurionpro International Grandmaster Chess Tournament in Mumbai was nothing short of electrifying, with local prodigy Hriday Maniar, only thirteen, grabbing headlines. In a stunning turn of events during Round 1, Maniar held Slovak Grandmaster Manik Mikulas to a draw, in what many are calling the young chess player's burgeoning career's most significant result.

Despite a daunting rating gap of nearly 500 points, Maniar displayed an extraordinary level of composure and precision, impressively challenging his seasoned opponent. This remarkable feat is considered one of the most significant upsets of the tournament's initial round, though the other 15 Grandmasters faced no difficulties advancing into Round 2 of this 9-round Swiss tournament.

The tournament, organized by the Indian Chess School under the auspices of the All India Chess Federation, features 293 participants from 18 nations, vying for a total prize fund of 25 lakh rupees. Key results from Round 1 saw top players securing victories with ease, solidifying their positions as the competition progresses.

(With inputs from agencies.)