The debate over whether India can become a new power centre in global chess is increasingly focused on one clear idea: the country needs to host more elite tournaments. According to this view, India must regularly stage high-level events that bring in the world's top players rather than relying only on its growing talent base.
The argument is that influence in chess is shaped not just by producing strong grandmasters, but also by becoming a major venue for the sport. When leading international players compete in one country on a consistent basis, that nation gains greater visibility, deeper competitive culture and a stronger voice in the wider chess world.
India's case is strengthened by the recent attention around its top players, including D Gukesh, whose progress has added fresh focus to the country's chess scene. That momentum has raised a larger question: whether India can turn individual success into lasting global stature by building a stronger calendar of major events at home.
If India wants a bigger say in global chess, hosting several prestigious tournaments could be a decisive step. Bringing the best players to Indian venues would not only elevate the country's profile, but also help position it as a serious centre of the modern chess landscape.
