Viswanathan Anand will return to competitive chess after a six-year hiatus at the Tata Steel Chess India Rapid and Blitz Open 2026 in Kolkata. The five-day tournament, held from January 7-11, will feature Anand playing against a field of rising talents. Anand expressed enthusiasm for playing against diverse styles and adapting to modern, technology-influenced chess. Tournament organizers anticipate his participation will significantly elevate the event's profile, regardless of rankings.