“India’s Chess Star Gukesh Dommaraju Receives Hero’s Welcome After Youngest World Championship Victory”

India’s chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju has returned home to a hero’s welcome in Chennai after making history as the youngest world champion at just 18 years old. The airport was packed with fans and media as Gukesh emerged with the World Chess Championship trophy in hand, beaming with pride.

“It means a lot to bring back the trophy to India,” Gukesh said, surrounded by adoring fans and garlands of flowers. The young champion defeated China’s Ding Liren in a thrilling final game in Singapore, capturing the hearts of a nation more known for its cricket obsession.

The scenes in Chennai were reminiscent of the celebrations that greeted the country’s cricket stars after their T20 World Cup victory earlier this year. Gukesh’s victory has inspired a new generation of chess enthusiasts, with young fans holding up signs and pictures of their new hero.

Gukesh’s father, a doctor, has been a constant support throughout his son’s chess journey, from becoming India’s youngest grandmaster at 12 to winning the prestigious Candidates Tournament in April. His victory over Ding Liren broke records previously held by legends like Garry Kasparov.

The young champion will be honored by the government of Tamil Nadu and is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Modi has already praised Gukesh’s “remarkable accomplishment” and highlighted how his success has inspired millions of young minds to dream big and strive for excellence.

Gukesh’s rock star welcome in Chennai and the nationwide celebration of his victory mark a new era for chess in India, with the young champion leading the charge for a sport that is gaining popularity and recognition on the global stage.