THOMAS MEMORIAL CHESS TOURNAMENT HELD AT SAN THOME ACADEMY
THOMAS MEMORIAL CHESS TOURNAMENT HELD AT SAN THOME ACADEMY
San Thome Academy, Bhopal Road, Dewas, successfully hosted the Thomas Memorial Chess Competition 2025, a prestigious event held in memory of the visionary Shri N.T. Thomas, whose lifelong dedication to education and student empowerment continues to inspire generations.
The ceremony commenced with an inspiring lamp lighting ritual followed by warm welcome to guests, students, and parents.
The competition was graced by a distinguished gathering of dignitaries including chief guest, IPS Shri Puneet Gehlod, Superintendent of Police, Dewas, special guests Shri Girish Mangla, and Madam Shobha Oza, former President of AIWC. The academy was also honored by the presence of Mr. Sunil Thomas, President of San Thome Group of Schools, Director Madam Hansy Thomas, Principal Dr. R. Retheesh, and Shri Sudhir Pandit, President of Dewas Chess Association.
During the inaugural session, guests highlighted the importance of chess as a medium to develop concentration, intellect, patience, and strategic thinking. The chief guest and special guests performed the ceremonial first move, officially declaring the tournament open.
The competition, conducted under three categories — Under 11, Under 14, and Under 17 — saw students from various cities, including Indore, Ujjain, Bhopal and Dewas, showcase their talent, tactical intelligence, and unwavering spirit. Alongside the main prizes, (top seven winners in each category ) special awards were given for the Youngest Player, and Best Girl Player each accompanied by a cash prize. The tournament carried a total prize fund of ₹51,000, adding to the grandeur and competitive spirit of the event.
The closing ceremony also featured inspirational addresses by chief guest Rev. Toms Ninan, special guests Prof. (Dr.) Sunil Somani, Mr. Anil Fatehchandani, Ex. Joint Secretary, All India Chess Federation and Mr. Amarjeet Singh Khanuja, Vice President, Association of Industries, Dewas. who encouraged students to apply the lessons of chess — patience, foresight, and strategic thinking — in life.
The competition was organised in collaboration with Dewas District Chess Association. The program was conducted by Nipunika Sharma.