Harikrishnan A Ra: Chennai’s Rising Star Becomes India’s 87th Chess Grandmaster

Bhubaneswar : A Ra Harikrishnan from Chennai has earned the distinction of becoming India’s 87th Grandmaster after clinching his third and final GM norm at the La Plagne International Chess Festival in France on July 11, 2025.

Harikrishnan is 23 years old and has trained for the past three years under Grandmaster Shyam Sundar.He secured his final GM norm with a crucial draw against fellow Indian GM P. Iniyan in the final round.His first GM norm came at the Biel International Chess Festival in Switzerland in 2023. The second was achieved just weeks before in Spain at the Lince Andujar Open.Harikrishnan crossed the required 2500 Elo rating in June 2024, fulfilling another major GM criterion.

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Harikrishnan had been a FIDE-rated player since age 7 and earned the International Master title in 2018.His journey involved playing consecutive tournaments across Dubai, Croatia, Russia, and Spain, before striking gold in France.Supported by his family and balancing academics with chess—he recently completed a Master of Commerce and plans to pursue an MBA in the USA while playing professionally.He is also a FIDE trainer, helping others in chess coaching.

“It’s been a long wait and struggle. I feel very happy to finally become a GM,” said Harikrishnan from France.

With his dynamic approach, unwavering dedication, and family support, Harikrishnan has become a symbol of perseverance for the next generation of Indian chess.