MANAMA, September 11, 2026 – The Bahrain Prathibha Grandmasters Cup – Season 1 is taking place today, Friday, September 11, at the Yousif Ahmed Abdulmalik Hall in Galali, Bahrain. The event brings together top chess players for an exciting day of competition.
- FIDE-rated international rapid chess tournament with about 120 registered players.
- Organized by Bahrain Prathibha Manama Zonal Committee and Arjun’s Chess Academy under Bahrain Chess Federation patronage.
- Features a seven-round Swiss system format with 10 minutes plus a 3-second increment per move.
The tournament follows a seven-round Swiss system format with a time control of 10 minutes plus a 3-second increment per move.
Participation required a valid FIDE ID. CM/FI/NA Arjun Kakkadath is serving as the chief arbiter and tournament director. Registration for the event, which carried an entry fee of BHD 12 and a discounted fee of BHD 10 for players born on or after January 1, 2014, officially closed after the late registration window of September 1 to 5.
Organizers have advised that no spot entries will be permitted at the venue. Registered participants requiring last-minute information may contact Arjun’s Chess Academy at 35139522.
The event highlights the activities of the Indian diaspora in Bahrain, where Indians constitute approximately 3.5 lakh people—roughly 30 percent of the total population—with about 2 lakh originating from Kerala.
There are currently at least 30 registered Indian socio-cultural associations and eight Indian schools in the country. With an average player age of approximately 13, the tournament emphasizes youth participation and provides competitive exposure within the international FIDE rating ecosystem. While organizers have confirmed that cash prizes and awards will be distributed, the specific breakdown of prize amounts will be announced officially at the venue.
Participants are instructed to have their FIDE ID and registration details ready upon arrival.