TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa Becomes India’s No.1 Chess Player

Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, an 18-year-old chess prodigy from Chennai, has made history by becoming India’s No.1 chess player. This achievement comes after he defeated World Champion Ding Liren at the 2024 Tata Steel Chess Tournament. Praggnanandhaa’s rise to the top spot in Indian chess rankings has surpassed the legendary Viswanathan Anand, who was known as the “Lightning Kid” for his quick calculation skills.

With a rating of 2748.3 points, Praggnanandhaa now holds the top position in India, edging past Anand’s 2748 points in the FIDE live ratings. This victory also marks Praggnanandhaa as the second Indian player after Anand to defeat a reigning world champion in classical chess.

In a statement to the media, Praggnanandhaa expressed his joy at achieving this milestone, stating, “That feels good!” His recent success includes finishing as the runner-up in the World Cup last year, earning him a spot in the upcoming Candidates tournament in April.

Born on August 10, 2005, in Chennai, Praggnanandhaa comes from a family of chess enthusiasts. His mother, Nagalakshmi, often accompanies him to tournaments, while his elder sister, R Vaishali, is also a Grandmaster. Together, they hold the world record for being the only brother-sister duo to achieve this title.

Praggnanandhaa’s journey in chess highlights the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement. His participation in international tournaments from a young age has exposed him to global competitiveness, teaching him valuable lessons in resilience and strategic thinking. Despite his dedication to chess, Praggnanandhaa also emphasizes the importance of balancing academics and passion, showcasing the significance of a well-rounded education.

As Praggnanandhaa continues to make waves in the world of chess, his success serves as an inspiration for aspiring players and a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication in achieving one’s goals.