From Childhood Fascination to Grandmaster: Aronyak Ghosh’s Chess Journey
Kolkata’s Aronyak Ghosh Becomes India’s 95th Grandmaster
Kolkata, April 21, 2026 — In a remarkable journey from a curious four-year-old to a celebrated chess Grandmaster, 22-year-old Aronyak Ghosh has etched his name in the annals of Indian chess history. Just days ago, he secured his title as India’s 95th Grandmaster by tying for first place at the prestigious Bangkok Chess Club Open.
Aronyak’s fascination with chess began at a tender age, inspired by the intricate pieces and the strategic depth of the game. His father, Mrinal Ghosh, a chess player and arbiter, recognized his son’s budding interest and nurtured it, believing that chess would play a significant role in Aronyak’s life.
Reflecting on his achievement, Aronyak expressed relief after a long wait to secure his third and final norm. “For sure it’s a relief because it has been a long time, to be honest,” he told The Hindu. With a current Elo rating of 2533, he has set his sights on reaching the coveted 2600 mark.
His journey to the Grandmaster title was not without challenges. Aronyak picked up his first norm at an event in Spain in 2023 and the second in 2024. “I was a bit unlucky at times. But also, I played very little in GM tournaments because it’s quite costly to go and play abroad,” he explained.
Despite the hurdles, Aronyak remains optimistic and eager to compete more frequently to improve his rating. He credits his father for his unwavering support, especially during the years when he struggled to achieve the necessary norms. “He kept motivating me, especially in the last few years when I was kind of stuck,” Aronyak said.
In addition to his personal triumph, Aronyak praised fellow chess player R. Vaishali, who recently won the Candidates tournament. He admired her composure and skill, suggesting that he could take inspiration from her journey as he continues to climb the ranks.
As Aronyak Ghosh embarks on this new chapter as a Grandmaster, the chess community eagerly anticipates his future endeavors on the international stage. With a strong foundation and a supportive family, the young prodigy is poised to make significant strides in the world of chess.