Bihar and Tamil Nadu CM Celebrate Chess Champions: Reyan MD and R Praggnanandhaa Honored with Cash Prizes for Their Remarkable Achievements
Bihar CM Felicitates Chess Prodigy Reyan MD
In a grand ceremony that celebrated excellence in sports, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary honored young chess sensation Reyan MD for his stellar performance at the Commonwealth Chess Championship 2026. The event, held in Sri Lanka, saw Reyan clinch two gold medals and one bronze, showcasing his exceptional talent in the Under-18 Open category.
Representing GD Goenka School, Patna, Reyan’s achievements were recognized with a cash prize of Rs 22.5 lakh, along with a ceremonial shawl and a memento. The tournament, which took place from May 16 to May 26, featured participants from 14 countries, highlighting the competitive spirit of young chess players across the Commonwealth.
Reyan’s remarkable performance not only brought glory to Bihar but also underscored India’s growing prominence in international youth chess competitions. His success is being hailed as a significant milestone for Indian chess, inspiring a new generation of players.
Tamil Nadu CM Honours Praggnanandhaa for Norway Chess Win
In a parallel celebration of chess excellence, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay recently honored Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa with a cash reward of Rs 50 lakh for his historic victory at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament. This momentous occasion took place at the Chief Secretariat in Chennai, where the Chief Minister engaged in a friendly game of chess with the 20-year-old prodigy.
Praggnanandhaa made headlines by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title, a feat he accomplished after defeating Germany’s Vincent Keymer in a thrilling final round. His victory was marked by an impressive late surge, securing four consecutive wins to clinch one of the most significant titles of his career.
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Office shared the news on social media, emphasizing the historic nature of Praggnanandhaa’s achievement and the state’s commitment to supporting its sports talents.
Both Reyan MD and R Praggnanandhaa’s accomplishments reflect the rising tide of chess talent in India, inspiring young players across the nation and showcasing the country’s potential on the global chess stage.