Historic Victory: Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa Becomes First Indian to Win Norway Chess 2026 Title

Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa Makes History as First Indian to Win Norway Chess 2026

Oslo, Norway — In a remarkable achievement for Indian chess, 20-year-old Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa has become the first Indian player to clinch the prestigious Norway Chess 2026 title. The Chennai native’s historic victory was celebrated back home as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay honored him with a cash reward of INR 50 lakh at a ceremony held at the Chief Secretariat on June 8, 2026.

Praggnanandhaa’s journey to the top of the chess world has been nothing short of inspiring. His win in Oslo not only marks a significant milestone for his career but also elevates India’s status in the global chess arena. The young prodigy showcased exceptional skill and strategic prowess throughout the tournament, defeating some of the world’s top players.

During the felicitation ceremony, CM Vijay expressed immense pride in Praggnanandhaa’s achievement. “Your victory has brought glory to our state and our nation,” he said. Following the formal presentation, the atmosphere turned light-hearted as the Chief Minister and the Grandmaster engaged in a friendly game of chess. A video shared by the Chief Minister’s Office captured the moment, showing Vijay making a symbolic opening move while Praggnanandhaa and his family looked on with pride.

The event was not just a celebration of Praggnanandhaa’s victory but also a testament to the growing popularity of chess in India. With initiatives to promote the sport at the grassroots level, the future looks bright for aspiring chess players in the country.

As the chess community and fans worldwide celebrate this historic win, Praggnanandhaa’s achievement serves as an inspiration for many young athletes. His journey is a reminder that with dedication and hard work, dreams can indeed become a reality.

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