Visa Woes Threaten Indian Chess Star Pranesh Munirethinam’s Participation in FIDE World Team Championships in Hong Kong
Visa Woes Threaten Indian Chess Prodigy Pranesh Munirethinam’s Participation in FIDE World Championships
NEW DELHI: A visa snag has thrown a shadow over the participation of Indian chess prodigy Pranesh Munirethinam in the upcoming FIDE World Team Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in Hong Kong. Coach RB Ramesh has issued an urgent appeal for assistance, as the 19-year-old talent awaits his visa approval.
In a post on X, Ramesh expressed his concern, stating that despite applying well in advance, Pranesh has yet to receive his visa. “Our team ChessGurukul is set to compete at the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship from June 16 to 22. Pranesh, currently playing in the French League, needs urgent help to expedite his Hong Kong visa!” he wrote.
The tournament, scheduled from June 17 to 21, promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, featuring a strong ChessGurukul lineup that includes renowned Indian players like R Praggnanandhaa and Vaishali Rameshbabu, alongside Aravindh Chithambaram, Karthikeyan Murali, Rakshitta Ravi, Vishruth B, and Varsha Ramesh.
Ramesh had previously shared his excitement about fielding a ChessGurukul team on the international stage, calling it a long-held dream. “Eagerly looking forward! My wife Aarthi will be the team manager/captain, and my daughter Varsha will compete in the below 2000 board. Each of them is very close to my heart. Dream team!” he wrote.
Pranesh’s potential absence would be a significant setback for the team. The young chess star played a crucial role in supporting Vaishali during her successful Candidates campaign in Cyprus, which secured her a World Championship match against China’s Ju Wenjun.
Reflecting on Pranesh’s impact, Vaishali noted, “He has been super supportive throughout the tournament, keeping the atmosphere light during tense moments.” Their camaraderie extended beyond the chessboard, as they enjoyed table tennis and padel together.
As the tournament date approaches, ChessGurukul remains hopeful that the visa issue will be resolved swiftly, allowing Pranesh to join his teammates in Hong Kong. The chess community watches closely, eager for a resolution that will enable this promising talent to shine on the international stage.