Chess Olympiad opening ceremony: In pictures - Modi, Stalin inaugurate tournament, Dhee performs Enjoy Enjaami

A grand opening ceremony kicked off the 44th Chess Olympiad in Chennai. From star performances to ceremonial protocol, here’s a look at the highlights of the evening.

Photo: PTII

Prime Minister Modi also handled the Draw of Colours. As chosen by him, India will start with black on day 1, as will tournament favourite USA.

Photo: Lennart Ootes

Photo: Lennart Ootes

Photo: Lennart Ootes

Photo: B Jothi Ramalingam

In a symbolic gesture, Viswanathan Anand passed on the Olympiad relay torch to Indian team members and Grandmasters D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa and S Vijayalakshmi.

Photo: AFP

A dance set conceptualised by Vignesh Shivan portrayed the cultural fabric of Tamil Nadu.

Photo: PTI

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin inaugurated the 44th Chess Olympiad in Chennai on Thursday.

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