R Praggnanandhaa Honored by Tamil Nadu CM Vijay After Historic Norway Chess Victory
R Praggnanandhaa Honored by Tamil Nadu CM Vijay After Historic Norway Chess Victory
Chennai, June 8, 2026 – In a momentous celebration of talent and determination, R Praggnanandhaa was honored by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday, just three days after the young Grandmaster made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess tournament in Oslo.
The 20-year-old chess prodigy was greeted with accolades and a cash prize of ₹50 lakh during a ceremony at the Secretariat, where he was accompanied by his proud parents, Nagalakshmi and Rameshbabu. The event took a delightful turn when CM Vijay challenged Praggnanandhaa to a friendly game of chess, showcasing his own unexpected skills on the board.
Praggnanandhaa’s journey to victory at the 14th edition of Norway Chess was nothing short of extraordinary. After starting at the bottom of the six-player standings, he staged a remarkable comeback, winning four consecutive Classical games, including a stunning eighth-round victory against world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen. This win marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time in nearly two decades that Carlsen had lost twice to the same player in a single tournament.
Reflecting on the surprise chess match with the Chief Minister, Praggnanandhaa expressed his astonishment. “I didn’t expect it. I haven’t heard from anyone that he plays chess. He played well,” he remarked, adding that he managed to checkmate Vijay’s king while playing with the black pieces.
The victory at Norway Chess not only solidified Praggnanandhaa’s status as a rising star in the chess world but also reignited interest in the game among young players in India. His achievement follows the historic World Championships triumph of fellow Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh in December 2024, marking a new era for Indian chess.
As the celebrations continue, the young champion’s success has garnered praise from various quarters, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who commended his remarkable achievement.
With his recent triumph, Praggnanandhaa has not only made history but has also inspired a new generation of chess enthusiasts in India. As he looks ahead, the chess community eagerly anticipates what this talented Grandmaster will accomplish next.