Youngest-Rated Chess Player Anish Sarkar Making Waves in Kolkata

At just three years, eight months, and 19 days old, Anish Sarkar from Kaikhali in north Kolkata has made history as the youngest-rated chess player ever. His remarkable journey in the world of chess has captured the attention of many, with plans in motion for him to participate in the prestigious Tata Steel Kolkata Chess tournament, where he could potentially meet his idol, Magnus Carlsen.

Anish’s passion for chess was ignited just a year ago, and since then, he has quickly risen through the ranks. Making his competitive debut at the West Bengal state Under-9 Open, he impressed by defeating two rated players and finishing in 24th place. His subsequent participation in the state Under-13 Open allowed him to meet the FIDE requirement of playing five rated players, earning him an initial FIDE rating of 1555.

His coach, Dibyendu Barua, a Grandmaster himself, recognizes Anish’s potential but acknowledges that he still has a long way to go. Despite coming from a lower-middle-class background with no prior chess experience in his family, Anish’s dedication to the game is evident as he trains up to eight hours a day under Barua’s guidance.

Anish’s focus and determination are truly remarkable, with him often seen sitting atop stacks of chairs to reach the chessboard. Inspired by Magnus Carlsen, he also watches chess strategy videos on YouTube to improve his game. His emergence as a young chess prodigy adds to India’s promising future in the sport, alongside other talented players like R Praggnanandhaa and D Gukesh.

The anticipation for Anish’s participation in the Tata Steel Kolkata Chess tournament is high, especially with the potential opportunity to meet his hero, Magnus Carlsen. As he continues to make waves in the chess community, Anish Sarkar’s story is one of inspiration and hope for the future of Indian chess.