Wodehouse Gymkhana, a prestigious club situated in the heart of South Mumbai, will soon make a landmark move, heralded by Dr. Shreepad Khedekar — for the first time ever, the club will include chess in its list of activities. Recognizing the absence of chess-related activities within the club, Dr. Khedekar, a dedicated member and passionate chess enthusiast, is spearheading the organization of an exclusive chess tournament for members. This first-of-its-kind tournament is scheduled for Sunday, April 7, 2024 and will commence 9.30 am onwards.

The tournament guided by Dr. Khedekar has a twofold mission: first, it aims to provide members the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in an environment of healthy and spirited competition, while also attracting new members who have an interest in chess. In assuming a pioneering role in promoting chess in South Bombay and beyond, Wodehouse Gymkhana can be viewed as a progressive institution that values academic pursuits and social interactions.

Chess, a game that is rapidly gaining popularity in India and worldwide, transcends age barriers and fosters intergenerational connections.  A parent himself and an admirer of chess competitions, Dr. Khedekar is convinced that these tournaments will allow members to foster deeper bonds with their children while playing a great mind game that teaches them strategy skills alongside other life skills.

Dr. Khedekar, who has had a profound passion for chess since his childhood and a successful track record in rapid chess tournaments, is fully committed to overseeing all aspects of organizing the tournament. To ensure huge attendance during this competition, advanced planning, marketing, logistics, coordination and equipment acquisition is already underway.

Highlighting the intellectual and physical benefits of chess, Dr. Khedekar emphasizes the game’s role in developing problem-solving skills, decision making ability, visualization powers, pattern recognition techniques and instant thinking. Furthermore, chess hones all the skills needed for success in professions such as medicine, as part of holistic development the game inspires.

This inaugural chess competition at Wodehouse Gymkhana led by Dr. Shreepad Khedekar will be a turning point that celebrates the timeless attraction and intellectual challenge of this noble game.