Staff Reporter –
Parksons Cartamundi, India’s leading playing cards and card games manufacturer & distributor, has partnered with the Bridge Federation of India (BFI) to co-sponsor the 67th Ashok Ruia Memorial Winter National Bridge Championships—one of the country’s most prestigious and long-standing Bridge tournaments. The championship will be held from December 1–11, 2025, at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, Kolkata.
The collaboration marks a coming together of two worlds united by their love for cards — the craft of creating them and the strategy of mastering them through Bridge.
Bridge is a globally recognised mind sport, often described as a cross between chess and teamwork. Played in pairs, it demands logic, focus, and coordination — qualities that make it a true test of intellect over luck. The game is officially recognised by the Olympic Committee and the Sports authority of India. Bridge has also been a part of the Asian games where India has won many accolades and is even practised at top Indian institutes like IITs and IIMs, where it is valued for sharpening problem-solving and decision-making skills.
For over six decades, the Ashok Ruia Memorial Winter Nationals has been the heart of India’s Bridge community — drawing players from across the country who share a deep passion for the game’s challenge and camaraderie.
Bonus Custom-designed decks for champions: As part of this partnership, all participants will play with specially designed Bonus Playing Cards by Parksons Cartamundi, created exclusively for the tournament. These limited-edition decks are a celebration of craftsmanship, precision, and the enduring spirit of play that Bridge represents.
Bonus Brand Launch in India: Bonus, a brand launched in India by Parksons Cartamundi in October 2025, introduced its legendary deck of playing cards—perfect for home games like Rummy, Bridge, Teen Patti, and various other family favourites—in a modern and contemporary avatar at a soft launch event held in Vietnam in September. The main launch is now set to take place during the upcoming Bridge competition and festive Christmas season, marking a grand introduction of the brand to Indian audiences.
Sri Debasish Ray, Hon. Gen. Secretary of the Bridge Federation of India, said, “I deeply acknowledge and appreciate the immense support that we are receiving from Parksons Cartamundi Pvt Ltd. I strongly believe that its contribution will be instrumental in helping BFI to organize the best bridge events in the country. I hope and pray that Bridge reaches newer and greater heights in the near future.”
Mr. Anantvikram Somani a Bonus Envoy & an enthusiastic Bridge Player added, “Bridge has always been a Sport of intellect, logic, patience, and partnership where players thrive to showcase their thrilling display of strategies, skill, and sportsmanship. What makes it truly special is how it brings people together, across ages and backgrounds, through shared strategy and respect for the game. With Parksons Cartamundi on board, we’re adding another layer of creativity and excitement to this year’s tournament.”
Mr. Kapil Kejriwal, CEO & Managing Director, Parksons Cartamundi Private Limited said, “Bonus has always been more than a deck of cards, it has been a part of India’s cultural fabric. Before independence, Bonus was synonymous with evenings of laughter, friendly rivalry, and meaningful connection, a familiar presence in homes across the country. But as decades passed, the original Bonus quietly disappeared, and what remained were only distant imitations of a cherished classic. A piece of our collective nostalgia was missing from store shelves, and from our tables.”
He further added, “Today, we are proudly bringing Bonus back home. Parksons Cartamundi is reviving this iconic brand with the same authenticity, craftsmanship, and spirit that made Bonus a favourite for generations. Because to us, cards are not just a game, they are how families bond, friends celebrate, and memories are created. Our ambition is to once again see Bonus in every Indian household, a timeless, inclusive brand that truly belongs to everyone.”
Adding to the excitement, players at the tournament will experience Parksons Cartamundi’s iconic Bonus Playing Cards — a brand loved for generations — in a specially refreshed, premium design crafted for the event. Designed for players who enjoy games like Rummy, Bridge, and Teen Patti, these cards combine smooth handling with lasting strength, offering great control and an effortless shuffle. With their elegant and modern design and durable finish, the new Bonus Cards bring a touch of class and nostalgia to every game, a timeless favourite, reimagined for today’s players.
About Parksons Cartamundi: Established through a strategic joint venture between Parksons and Cartamundi, a pioneer and the world leader in the playing cards segment, Parksons Cartamundi Pvt. Ltd. is a prominent player in the gaming and entertainment business. Parksons Cartamundi Pvt. Ltd. aims to provide unique and superior card games, toys, and collectibles by utilizing its long-term experience and specialized technical and market knowledge. Its cutting-edge manufacturing facilities are located in Pardi, Gujarat, showcase unparalleled craftsmanship in their production processes. Through its varied portfolio, which is painstakingly and passionately created, the company hopes to evoke happiness and a sense of community. Their Head office is in Mumbai.
Cartamundi is a worldwide leader in the entertainment sector and “play” solutions, such as playing cards, card & board games, and collectibles & trading card games. Its team of over 3,100 people is united in providing every person the possibility to “Live Different, Play Different.” To achieve this, the family-owned company, headquartered in Belgium, operates a global network of sales offices and manufacturing facilities, stretching from the US, over Europe, to Japan. The company houses a global brand portfolio that includes a suite of heritage brands such as Bicycle®, Bee®, Copag®, Shuffle®, Grimaud and many locally loved brands. At the same time, Cartamundi is a trusted manufacturing and distribution solutions partner for leading toy and entertainment companies. Given the Cartamundi printing presses have been running since 1765, the company draws on a rich tradition, whilst at the same time stimulating innovation in digital and “phygital” experiences to stay relevant today and tomorrow. Cartamundi pursues a strategy of sustainable and profitable growth whilst preserving our planet and the company in excellent condition for generations to come.
