Chess, a game of strategy and intellect, has deep roots in India. It is believed that the ancient version of chess, known as Chaturanga, originated in India around the 6th century. Over the years, India has produced some of the world’s best chess players. These players have not only made their mark at national and international levels but have also inspired a new generation to take up this challenging game. In this article, we will explore the top 10 famous chess players in India who have brought glory to the country with their extraordinary skills.
1. Viswanathan Anand
Viswanathan Anand, popularly known as “Vishy,” is considered the greatest chess player in India’s history. He became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988, a milestone that transformed Indian chess forever. Anand is a five-time World Chess Champion (2000, 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2012) and has won numerous other prestigious titles throughout his career.
Anand’s style of play is known for its speed and accuracy. He earned the nickname “Lightning Kid” because of his quick decision-making during games. His success has inspired a whole generation of chess players in India, making him the face of Indian chess for over three decades.
2. Pentala Harikrishna
Pentala Harikrishna is another highly regarded chess player from India. He became a Grandmaster in 2001, when he was just 15 years old. Harikrishna has consistently been one of India’s top players and has represented the country in numerous international tournaments. He was ranked as the second-highest-rated player in India after Viswanathan Anand for many years.
Harikrishna’s style of play is marked by strong positional understanding and tactical prowess. He has represented India in the Chess Olympiad and has won many medals for the country, further solidifying his place as one of the country’s best.
3. Koneru Humpy
Koneru Humpy is one of the most prominent female chess players in India. She became a Grandmaster in 2002 and was the second woman after Judit Polgar to cross the 2600 Elo rating mark. Humpy has been the Women’s World Rapid Chess Champion and has won many titles at both national and international levels.
Her aggressive and confident style of play makes her a formidable opponent. Koneru Humpy is an inspiration to many young girls in India who are interested in pursuing chess professionally.
4. Vidit Gujrathi
Vidit Gujrathi is one of the rising stars of Indian chess. He became a Grandmaster in 2013 and quickly climbed the ranks to become one of India’s top players. Vidit has represented India in multiple Chess Olympiads and has consistently performed well in international tournaments.
Known for his calm and composed style, Vidit has a deep understanding of the game and is regarded as one of India’s best hopes for the future. He has also been active in promoting chess in India through online platforms and coaching.
5. Tania Sachdev
Tania Sachdev is another strong female chess player from India. She became a Grandmaster in 2008 and has won multiple national and international titles. Tania is known not only for her skills on the chessboard but also for her work as a chess commentator and presenter.
Her style of play is aggressive, and she is known for taking risks that often surprise her opponents. Tania has also played a crucial role in popularizing chess among Indian youth, particularly girls, through her various media appearances and online activities.
6. Baskaran Adhiban
Baskaran Adhiban, a Grandmaster since 2010, is known for his creative and daring style of play. Adhiban has been a regular fixture in India’s national chess team and has represented the country in various international tournaments, including the Chess Olympiad.
Adhiban’s fearless approach to the game has earned him a reputation as one of the most entertaining chess players to watch. His performances in elite tournaments have consistently kept him among the top players in India.
7. Nihal Sarin
Nihal Sarin is one of the youngest chess prodigies to emerge from India. He became a Grandmaster in 2018 at the age of just 14. Nihal has been part of several international tournaments and has already made a name for himself in the global chess community.
Nihal is known for his quick thinking and sharp tactical ability. Many experts believe that he has the potential to become one of the top players in the world in the coming years. His early success has made him a role model for many aspiring young chess players in India.
8. Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa
Praggnanandhaa, often called “Pragg,” became the second-youngest Grandmaster in history at the age of 12 in 2018. He is widely regarded as one of the most promising chess talents in the world. Praggnanandhaa has already achieved notable successes at a very young age, defeating some of the best players in international tournaments.
Pragg’s style of play is mature beyond his years, and his deep understanding of chess positions makes him a tough competitor. He is expected to follow in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand and bring more laurels to India in the future.
9. Aravindh Chithambaram
Aravindh Chithambaram is another young Grandmaster from India who has shown great potential. He became a Grandmaster in 2015 and has won several national and international tournaments. Aravindh is known for his strong tactical play and ability to perform under pressure.
He has represented India in various team events and is one of the key players for the future of Indian chess. His rapid rise in the chess world has made him a player to watch in the coming years.
10. Dronavalli Harika
Dronavalli Harika is a highly successful female chess player from India, having achieved the title of Grandmaster in 2011. Harika has represented India in numerous international tournaments, including the Women’s World Chess Championship, where she reached the semifinals multiple times.
Harika’s style of play is marked by her solid positional understanding and strategic depth. She has been a role model for many young girls aspiring to take up chess as a career. Her consistent performances have earned her a place among the best female players in the world.
Conclusion
India’s chess scene has evolved tremendously over the years, with players like Viswanathan Anand leading the way and inspiring a new generation of talent. The country now boasts a large pool of young and experienced players who are making their mark on the global stage. From established legends like Anand and Humpy to rising stars like Nihal Sarin and Praggnanandhaa, India’s future in chess looks brighter than ever.
These top 10 famous chess players have not only brought glory to India but have also contributed to the growth of the game in the country. With continued support and encouragement, India is sure to produce many more champions in the years to come.
