The Indian city of Ahmedabad has set a new World Record by gathering 20483 people to play chess simultaneously in one place. World Champion Viswanathan Anand rang the bell to mark the start of the event and was very pleased to see Ahmedabad create the new record.

"I am happy that his dream has become a reality today, with Gujarat holding a historic event bringing laurels to the state as well as the country," Anand was quoted by Indian Express. The 24th December is a very special day for Anand, as it also marks ten years since he won his first World championship on this day in 2000 by beating Alexi Shirov in Tehran.

The "Swarnim Chess Mahotsav" was organised by the Department of Sports, Youth, & Cultural activities and the Gujarat Chess Association as part of the golden jubilee celebrations of the State.

An official representative of the Guinness Book was present to ensure that the ceremony conformed to the rules and regulations for records.

Earlier record was held by Mexico City where 13446 people played simultaneously in 2006.