The classic game of chess has been reimagined through object design. The Mohmaya chess set breaks away from the traditional flat chessboard and incorporates terrain and elevation into a three-dimensional structure. Moving pieces expands beyond simply following rules to become an experience of strategic exploration as you navigate the space.
This project was designed by Tanai Bora, Vidush Gupta, Hardik Sharma, and Yaman Gupta. The name Mohmaya, meaning "illusion," evokes the essence of chess: reading the opponent's intentions and concealing moves. Pawns are placed on the lowest points of the board, the center, a valley-like area where fierce battles and defenses take place, and the king and queen occupy the highest points. The hierarchy of each piece is revealed through the terrain.
The formal inspiration comes from mid-20th-century Indian Modernist architecture. The bold geometry and structural balance evoke the confidence of concrete architecture. This chess set is an homage to the golden age of Indian architecture, an architectural landscape embodied in object form.
The design goes beyond aesthetics and incorporates a symbolic system. Each piece is connected to a chakra concept: the pawn represents stability and perseverance, the knight represents creative energy, the bishop represents focus and strength, the rook represents protection and generosity, the queen represents leadership, and the king represents wisdom and balance. This setting allows players to understand the narrative roles of the pieces.
Mohmaya is also an attempt to expand the conventional perception of Indian design. Beyond nostalgic imagery and ornamentation, it suggests the possibilities of bold and philosophical modern Indian design. Chess enthusiasts and design collectors alike will appreciate this set as a rare example of both functionality and concept.
