From Wijk Aan Zee to Kolkata: How 'Wimbledon of Chess' Inspired Tata Steel's Indian Event

• The historic Hoogovens Tournament in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, established in 1938, served as the primary inspiration for India's Tata Steel Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship.
• Dubbed 'The Wimbledon of Chess', the tournament evolved into the Corus Chess Tournament and continued under Tata Steel's patronage after their acquisition of Corus.
• Tata Steel launched a Rapid and Blitz format event in Kolkata, led by Jeet Banerjee and GM Dibyendu Barua, aiming for an elite tournament distinct from existing open events.
• Kolkata was chosen for its architectural style and the local population's strong interest in sports and cultural events, making it an ideal host city for the championship.
• Now in its sixth season, Tata Steel Chess attracts top players like Anand and Carlsen, and includes a popular Tata Chess Festival for amateurs, fostering a vibrant chess culture.

Why It Matters: Tata Steel Chess in Kolkata, inspired by the historic Wijk aan Zee tournament, has become a premier event.