IXL 2023 Grand Finale: Shashwat Salgaonkar of Panaji Clinches the Coveted IXL Champions Trophy 

Bengaluru, 24th December 2023: The 11th annual grand finale of the Indian Crossword League (IXL), a globally celebrated cryptic crossword contest recognized by the Limca Book of Records, concluded with flair at Hotel Royal Orchid in Bengaluru. The event marked the culmination of a thrilling journey that saw participants from around the world engage in 10 online rounds, leading to the selection of the top 30 finalists who battled for the coveted championship on December 24, 2023.

In its 11th year, the IXL Grand Finale promise to be a thrilling culmination of skill, strategy, and linguistic prowess. Hotel Royal Orchid, a longstanding partner in hosting the event, once again was the epicenter of this global crossword spectacle. Participants from diverse backgrounds and walks of life passionately engaged in the online rounds since September 17, vying for a coveted spot among the top 30 finalists.

In a display of extraordinary linguistic prowess, Shashwat Salgaonkar from Panaji emerged as the ultimate IXL champion, securing the trophy and etching his name in the annals of cryptic crossword history. The competition was intense, with Sohil Bhagat and Raj Jayram of Bengaluru emerging as close runner-ups, showcasing the remarkable talent that defines the IXL Grand Finale. Notably, Ramki Krishnan of Chennai, record 7-time champion stood 4th in the competition.

The grandeur of the IXL Grand Finale was further elevated by the esteemed presence of Mrs. Shalini Rajneesh, Additional Chief Secretary and Development Commissioner, Karnataka, who served as the chief guest for the event. Accompanying her were notable dignitaries including Amar Pandey, IPS, President, Crossword Association of Karnataka who added to the prestige of the occasion.

In collaboration with the Crossword Federation of India, Extra-C has been at the forefront of organizing crossword competitions across India and abroad. The IXL Grand Finale is a testament to the commitment of fostering a global crossword community. Previous editions of IXL have been hosted in Toronto and New Jersey, expanding the reach of this cultural phenomenon. 

Crossword Federation of India is formed with different state chapters (different states forming their own crossword federation) and promoting the culture of crossword solving among citizens of India. Delhi Crossword Association organized DU open crossword contest at Miranda House on 27th October. Tamil Nadu Association of Crossword is going to host Tamil Nadu Open Online Crossword Contest on 26th December.

Beyond IXL, Extra-C, in collaboration with Crossword Federation of India, has been instrumental in organizing various crossword competitions to bring the joy of puzzling to different corners of India. Notable competitions include the CCCC Cryptic Crossword Contest (National Level Inter-School Competition), NICE National Inter-College Crossword Expedition (for college-goers), and ACAD A Clue A Day contest (for school, college students, and senior citizens). The idea behind hosting such competitions is to take crossword to the hinterlands of India.

Excitingly, Extra-C and the Crossword Federation of India have plans to launch crossword competitions in vernacular languages, aiming to make the joy of puzzling accessible to a wider audience across India. This initiative will prove to be a significant step towards promoting linguistic diversity and engaging crossword enthusiasts in their native languages.

Vivek Kumar Singh, IAS, Development Commissioner of Bihar and Chief Mentor of Extra-C, shared his vision: “Crossword puzzles transcend borders and connect people through the shared love for language and intellect. These competitions are not just contests; they are platforms to bring communities together and stimulate the minds of the participants.”

As the curtain falls on IXL 2023, the crossword community is already buzzing about the future. Plans are underway for the World Cup of Crossword in 2025, promising an even more extensive celebration of linguistic brilliance on a global stage.