Pune has recently emerged as a vibrant hub for sports, thanks in large part to the efforts of Sixteen by Sixty-Four Media. This dynamic organization has been instrumental in bringing high-profile events like the Maharashtra Badminton League, Maharashtra Chess League, and the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix to the city, significantly enhancing its reputation in the national and international sports arenas.
Maharashtra Badminton League: Elevating State-Level Competition
The Maharashtra Badminton League (MBL) has become a cornerstone in the state’s badminton calendar. Organized with the support of the Maharashtra Badminton Association, the league provides a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience. The league’s format encourages competitive play and has been pivotal in identifying and nurturing future stars of Indian badminton.
Maharashtra Chess League: Pioneering Team-Based Chess
The Maharashtra Chess League (MCL) stands out as India’s first franchise-based chess league, introducing a team format to a traditionally individual sport. This innovative approach has not only increased the game’s popularity but also provided a new dimension to chess competitions. By bringing together top players from across the country, the MCL has played a significant role in promoting chess at the grassroots level in Maharashtra.
FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2025: A Global Chess Showcase in Pune
In April 2025, Pune hosted the prestigious FIDE Women’s Grand Prix, attracting the world’s top female chess players. The tournament was marked by intense competition and high-caliber play.
- Humpy Koneru’s Triumph
Indian Grandmaster Humpy Koneru clinched the title in a dramatic fashion, finishing tied with China’s Zhu Jiner at 7/9 points. However, Humpy’s superior performance with the black pieces secured her the championship on tiebreaks. This victory propelled her to second place in the overall Grand Prix standings, keeping her in contention for the 2026 Candidates Tournament. - Divya Deshmukh’s Impressive Debut
Making her debut in the Grand Prix circuit, India’s Divya Deshmukh delivered a commendable performance, securing the bronze medal with 5.5/9 points. Her solid play throughout the tournament underscored her potential on the international stage. - A Memorable Event Beyond the Board
The tournament was not just about chess; it also featured unique moments, such as a traditional Indian wedding taking place at the venue, adding a cultural flair to the event. Despite the brief interruption, the games resumed with renewed vigor, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of the players and organizers alike.
Sixteen by Sixty-Four Media: Driving Sports Excellence in Pune
Through meticulous planning and execution, Sixteen by Sixty-Four Media has successfully positioned Pune as a key destination for major sports events. Their commitment to promoting sports at all levels has not only provided athletes with valuable opportunities but also enriched the city’s cultural and sporting landscape.
Through meticulous planning and execution, Sixteen by Sixty-Four Media has successfully positioned Pune as a key destination for major sports events. Their commitment to promoting sports at all levels has not only provided athletes with valuable opportunities but also enriched the city’s cultural and sporting landscape.
As Pune continues to host such prestigious events, the city’s profile as a sports hub is set to rise, inspiring the next generation of athletes and enthusiasts.