Mumbai, April 3 – Shriram Mhasane took the sole lead with an impressive 6.5 points after Round 7 of the All India Chess Masters (Season 3), which was held at the Mumbai Chess Centre, Pedder Road, on Friday. Mhasane's crucial victory over Arjun Singh helped him break away from the chasing pack, giving him a clear advantage going into the final round of the tournament.
On the top board, Rajveer Nahar drew with Shreyansh Somaiya in a closely contested game, with both players reaching 5.5 points and remaining within striking distance of the leader.
In other key results, Deepak R. Soni scored an important win over Amogh Bhatavadekar, while Nikhil Shelar defeated Pankaj Borse, and Mohsin Yunus Shaikh overcame Prisha Margaj to stay in contention.
Tanuj Dayal drew with Aashrita Balaji Guttula, while Palaash Mapara bounced back strongly with a win against Ekaansh Sharma, keeping his chances alive going into the final round.
With one round remaining, Mhasane holds a slender but significant lead, while a strong chasing pack ensures that the title race is still wide open and promises a thrilling finish.
Palaash Mapara (5 points), who was the overnight sole leader, saw his winning streak come to an end as he suffered a defeat against Shreyansh Somaiya (5.5 points) in Round 6 of the All India Chess Masters (Season 3) Mumbai FIDE Classical Tournament 2026. Playing on the top board with white pieces, Palaash was unable to counter Shreyansh's clever tactical maneuvers and suffered his first loss at the Mumbai Chess Centre, Pedder Road, on Thursday.
Results – Round 7 (Top Boards):
Shreyansh Somaiya (5½) drew with Rajveer Nahar (5½) — ½-½
Shriram Mhasane (6½) beat Arjun Singh (5) — 1-0
Tanuj Dayal (5) drew with Aashrita Balaji Guttula (5) — ½-½
Deepak R Soni (5) beat Amogh Bhatavadekar (5) — 1-0
Pankaj Borse (5) lost to Nikhil Shelar (5) — 0-1
Prisha Margaj (5) lost to Mohsin Yunus Shaikh (5) — 0-1
Ekaansh Sharma (5) lost to Palaash Mapara (5) — 0-1
AFM Sohum Pawar (4½) beat Ishan Hemant Jathan (4½) — 1-0
AFM Omkar Gaikwad (4½) drew with Pratik Yadnik (4½) — ½-½
Ivaan Patel (4½) drew with Anay Banka (4½) — ½-½