Lucknow: India has emerged as a powerhouse in the world of chess, producing a significant number of young chess grandmasters who have made their mark on the international stage. This success is attributed to a combination of factors including robust chess academies, dedicated coaches, and the growing popularity of the game in the country. Here are some notable young Indian chess grandmasters:
Viswanathan Anand
While not exactly young by current standards, no discussion about Indian chess can begin without mentioning Viswanathan Anand, the pioneer who inspired a generation of chess players in India. Anand became India’s first grandmaster in 1988 at the age of 18 and went on to become a World Chess Champion multiple times.
Parimarjan Negi
Parimarjan Negi became the second youngest grandmaster in the world at the age of 13 years and 4 months in 2006. His early success served as an inspiration for many young chess players in India.
Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu
Praggnanandhaa, commonly known as Praggu, became a grandmaster at the age of 12 years and 10 months in 2018. He is one of the brightest talents in Indian chess and has already competed against some of the best players in the world.
Nihal Sarin
Nihal Sarin earned his grandmaster title at the age of 14 in 2018. Known for his speed and sharp tactical play, he has been a consistent performer in various international tournaments.
D. Gukesh
D. Gukesh became India’s youngest grandmaster at the age of 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days in 2019, narrowly missing the world record. His rapid rise in the chess world has been remarkable.
Raunak Sadhwani
Raunak Sadhwani achieved the grandmaster title at the age of 13 in 2019. He has shown great potential and continues to improve his game through various international competitions.
Arjun Erigaisi
Arjun Erigaisi earned his grandmaster title at the age of 14 in 2018. He has since been a strong contender in numerous tournaments and has shown great promise for the future.
P. Iniyan
P. Iniyan became a grandmaster at the age of 16 in 2019. He has been a consistent performer in the Indian chess circuit and has made significant strides internationally.
Leon Luke Mendonca
Leon Luke Mendonca became a grandmaster at the age of 14 in 2020. His journey to the grandmaster title was unique as he achieved it during the COVID-19 pandemic, often traveling to different countries to compete in tournaments.
Chess Infrastructure and Support in India
The rise of young grandmasters in India can be attributed to several key factors:
- Chess Academies and Schools: India has a number of chess academies and schools that offer excellent training facilities and coaching from experienced players.
- Online Platforms: The availability of online chess platforms has allowed young players to practice and compete with international players from a young age.
- Supportive Parents and Communities: The role of supportive parents and communities cannot be understated. Many young players receive strong encouragement and backing from their families.
- Government and Corporate Sponsorships: Financial support from both government and corporate sectors has provided young talents with the necessary resources to compete globally.
India’s young grandmasters have not only brought glory to the nation but also inspired a new generation of chess enthusiasts. Their early successes are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the robust support system that nurtures their talents. As these young stars continue to shine, the future of Indian chess looks brighter than ever.
