World Champion D Gukesh has withdrawn from the Tata Steel Chess India Rapid and Blitz tournament in Kolkata due to personal reasons. Nihal Sarin will replace Gukesh in the event, scheduled from January 7-11. Organizers and tournament director Dibyendu Barua expressed that Gukesh's absence is a significant setback for fans and the event, as many were eager to see the world champion play. The tournament will still feature other notable players like Viswanathan Anand and R Praggnanandhaa.