Bridge championship in Kolkata action is set to reach new heights this month as the 9th All India Shree Cement Bridge Championship returns to the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre from April 30 to May 3, 2026.
This premier “Category A” tournament will bring together more than 400 of the nation’s most skilled players for four days of intense strategic combat in the heart of New Town.
A Premier Gathering for India’s Elite Mind Sports Enthusiasts
The upcoming championship represents a significant milestone for the Indian bridge community.
Organised by the Corporate Bridge Association of India (CBAI) in collaboration with the West Bengal Bridge Association (WBBA), the event has grown exponentially in popularity over the last nine years.
Under the aegis of the Bridge Federation of India (BFI), this tournament has become a mandatory stop for anyone serious about the sport, offering a platform where veterans and rising stars test their wits.
The growth of this event is largely attributed to the unwavering support of Mr. Hari Mohan Bangur, CEO of Shree Cement Ltd. A well-known figure in the bridge world himself, Mr. Bangur has been instrumental in promoting mind sports across India.
This year, the tournament is bigger than ever, backed by the strength and reliability associated with the Bangur Cement brand.
A Massive Prize Pool and Growing Prestige
One of the biggest draws for this year’s championship is the significantly enhanced prize pool. The total purse has been boosted to a whopping ₹10 lakh.
This record-breaking amount is distributed across several high-stakes events, ensuring that top performers in every category are well-rewarded for their tactical brilliance.
By the numbers:
- ₹7,00,000: Prize money for the “Team of Four” event.
- ₹2,25,000: Prize money for “Match Point Pairs.”
- ₹75,000: Prize money for “IMP Pairs.”
- 4 days: Duration of the championship.
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Master the Schedule: Four Days of High-Stakes Strategy
The tournament kicked off with a formal inauguration ceremony at 9:30 AM on April 30 in Hall No. 3. From there, the schedule is packed with various formats designed to test different aspects of bridge expertise.
- April 30 – May 1: The focus is on the Team of Four Swiss League, where teams battle through multiple rounds to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
- May 1 – May 2: The Matchpoint Pairs elimination rounds begin, running alongside the Team of Four pre-quarters and semi-finals.
- May 3: The championship reaches its climax with the Team of Four Final, the Matchpoint Pairs Final, and the fast-paced IMP Pairs event.
Essential Registration Guidelines for Tournament Participants
If you are planning to compete, you need to move quickly. Registration for two events are over. Only IMP Pairs is open and the entries close at 8:00 PM on Saturday, May 2.
You can visit the official West Bengal Bridge Association portal for registration. Entry is only considered final once the payment is processed.
The tournament strictly adheres to the WBF 2017 Laws of Duplicate Bridge.
Participants are reminded that the venue maintains high professional standards; for instance, no food or drinks are allowed in the playing arena, and players must be seated promptly to avoid penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bridge Championship in Kolkata
Where exactly is the event being held?
The tournament takes place at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, Hall No. 3, located in New Town, Kolkata.
Can I attend as a spectator?
Yes, bridge enthusiasts are encouraged to witness the matches, though spectators are expected to follow tournament etiquette, such as maintaining silence and not bringing food or drinks into the playing arena.
How can I register for the events?
All entries must be submitted and paid for online through the tournament website. Deadlines vary: April 29 for Team of Four, April 30 for MP Pairs, and May 2 for IMP Pairs.
How do winners receive their prize money?
All prizes will be disbursed via bank transfer within 45 days of the tournament’s end. Winners must provide their bank details through the official portal within a 45-day window to avoid delays.
What is the system policy for the championship?
The championship follows the BFI System Policy and the WBF 2017 Laws of Duplicate Bridge. Properly filled convention cards must be displayed at every table.
Is there a secondary event for those who don’t qualify for finals?
Yes, the IMP Pairs and the BAM (Board-A-Match) Team events serve as consolation formats, ensuring everyone stays engaged throughout the weekend.
Are there specific rules for the playing arena?
Yes. Players must remain seated during play and are prohibited from bringing food or drinks (including tea and coffee) into the playing area. Properly filled convention cards are mandatory at every table.
Who manages the technical side of the game?
The tournament follows the WBF 2017 Laws of Duplicate Bridge and is overseen by a dedicated technical committee and experienced tournament directors to ensure fair play.
What happens if I miss my seat at the start of a round?
The tournament follows strict BFI guidelines. Failure to take your seat as per the program will result in a penalty.