Mayank Chakraborty: From Early Setbacks to Grandmaster Glory as Assam’s First Chess Champion

Mayank Chakraborty: Assam’s Trailblazing Grandmaster

Guwahati, Assam — In a remarkable journey that began at the tender age of six, Mayank Chakraborty has made history by becoming India’s 94th Grandmaster and the first-ever from Assam and the North-East region. His recent triumph at a tournament in Stockholm has not only earned him this prestigious title but also inspired countless aspiring chess players across the nation.

Mayank’s path to greatness was not without its challenges. Initially drawn to chess, he faced setbacks in tournament play that led him to explore badminton. However, the allure of the 64-square game proved irresistible, and he returned to chess with renewed vigor. His mother, Monomita Chakraborty, a dedicated gynaecologist, recalls how his passion for the game blossomed. “He developed rapidly and began winning medals,” she said, highlighting his silver medal in the under-9 Open Nationals and his subsequent victory as the under-11 National champion.

His accolades continued to pile up, including a silver in the under-10 open section at the Asian Youth tournament in Sri Lanka in 2019. “Winning became a habit for him,” Monomita added, reflecting on her son’s impressive track record. Mayank also clinched the under-17 Nationals title twice, showcasing his consistent improvement.

However, the lack of local coaching resources in Guwahati prompted the Chakraborty family to seek training from renowned Grandmasters. “He was trained initially by GM Saptarshi Roy Chowdhury and GM Swayams Mishra for the past five years or so,” Monomita explained, emphasizing the importance of expert guidance in his development.

Mishra, one of Mayank’s coaches, praised his dedication and hard work. “Mayank’s journey to becoming a Grandmaster is truly the result of many years of hard work, dedication, and strong support from his family,” he said. “It has been very satisfying to watch his progress — from a young and talented child to a mature, strong, and determined player. I expect him to cross the 2600 Elo mark at the earliest possible opportunity.”

Monomita expressed her pride in her son’s achievement, stating, “I have been a supporter so that he could realize his dream to be the first GM from Assam and the entire North-East. India boasts of 93 GMs, but Assam and the North-East had been waiting for its GM for almost three decades since Viswanathan Anand became the first in 1988.”

As Mayank Chakraborty steps into the spotlight, he not only represents his state but also serves as a beacon of hope for young athletes in the region. His story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the unwavering support of family, proving that dreams can indeed become a reality with hard work and dedication.

Published on Mar 16, 2026