The Remarkable Journey of D Gukesh: Sacrifices, Support, and Success in World Chess Championship

The remarkable journey of D Gukesh, the crowned champion at the recent World Chess Championship, has captured the attention of people worldwide. His victory not only showcases his exceptional talent but also highlights the unwavering support and sacrifices made by his parents, Padma Kumari and Rajnikanth.

In a recent interview with ChessBase India, Gukesh’s mother, Padma Kumari, shared insights into their unconventional decisions and her son’s relentless drive to excel in chess. She revealed the bold decision she and her husband made to halt Gukesh’s formal education after the 5th grade to focus entirely on his chess career.

“There were countless moments when we doubted ourselves,” Padma admitted. “Whenever he didn’t perform well in tournaments, we would question if we had made the right choice. He was just a child, and the responsibility of shaping his future weighed heavily on us.”

Despite the challenges, their belief in Gukesh’s potential kept them steadfast. “We never doubted Gukesh’s abilities, but the decision to prioritize chess over school was tested time and again,” Padma added.

Gukesh’s father, Rajnikanth, also played a crucial role in shaping his son’s character. Padma shared how her husband’s firm stance on finishing what one starts became a cornerstone of Gukesh’s resilience and determination.

“When he was younger, if a tournament didn’t go well, Gukesh would want to withdraw,” she said. “But his father insisted, ‘You have to finish the tournament and fight till the end.'”

Reflecting on his journey, Gukesh expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his parents. “I have been dreaming of this moment since I started playing chess at seven, but the dream was probably bigger for my parents than for me,” he said. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by his family and friends, stating, “Their support means everything to me.”

Gukesh’s story is a testament to the power of unwavering support, sacrifice, and determination in achieving one’s dreams. His triumph at the World Chess Championship serves as an inspiration to aspiring chess players and showcases the incredible bond between a talented young player and his devoted parents.