Anuj Shrivatri Becomes India鈥檚 100th Chess Grandmaster
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Anuj Shrivatri on becoming India’s 100th chess Grandmaster, calling it an exceptional achievement for the country.
In a post on X, Modi said the milestone reflected the immense talent, dedication and hard work of Indian players, along with the growing popularity of chess among the country’s youth.
“India has hit a century in chess! Exceptional isn’t it? India is now home to a hundred chess Grandmasters! Congratulations to Anuj Shrivatri on becoming India’s 100th Chess Grandmaster! What a wonderful achievement it is,” he wrote.
Shrivatri Achieves Historic Milestone
The 7th ASEAN Plus Individual Open Chess Championship winner secured the Grandmaster title after triumphing at the tournament in Sinacaban, Philippines, on Sunday.
Modi also expressed hope that Shrivatri’s achievement would encourage more youngsters to take up chess and pursue excellence.
“May this achievement inspire many more youngsters to take up chess and pursue excellence,” the Prime Minister added.
From Anand To 100 Grandmasters
Legendary Viswanathan Anand became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988. The country has since steadily expanded its presence in international chess, with five players earning the title between July and November this year.
Ethan Vaz, Harshvardhan GB, S Ashwath and V Rathnavel secured their Grandmaster titles before Shrivatri completed the century.
India’s D Gukesh, meanwhile, remains the reigning world champion and is set to defend his crown later this month.
