Celebrating Excellence: The Times of India Sports Awards 2025 Highlights Para Chess Stars Samarth J Rao, Vaibhav Gautam, and Venkata Krishna Karthik K
TOISA 2025: Celebrating the Triumphs of Para Chess Athletes
Lucknow, March 21, 2026 – The Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) is set to return for its eighth edition, once again illuminating the remarkable achievements of India’s finest athletes. Scheduled for March 21, 2026, in Lucknow, this year’s ceremony promises to be a grand affair, uniting some of the country’s biggest sporting icons and rising stars who have delivered outstanding performances over the past year.
The awards will recognize athletes across more than 45 categories, celebrating achievements recorded between January 1 and December 31, 2025. The past year has been a thrilling chapter for Indian sports, marked by unforgettable moments at global championships and major international competitions. TOISA continues to honor those who have pushed boundaries and made the nation proud through their dedication and excellence.
A distinguished panel of sporting legends, including Abhinav Bindra, PR Sreejesh, Mithali Raj, Devendra Jhajharia, Sharath Kamal, and Leander Paes, will decide the winners. Among the nominees, three exceptional para chess players stand out: Samarth J Rao, Vaibhav Gautam, and Venkata Krishna Karthik K.
Rising Stars of Para Chess
Samarth J Rao, born on May 20, 1999, in Karnataka, has steadily built a reputation as one of India’s most dependable para chess performers. His 2025 season was particularly impressive, finishing as the runner-up at the 5th National Chess Championship for Specially Abled Players, where he went unbeaten across nine rounds. This strong showing not only showcased his skill but also earned him a spot at the 24th World IPCA Individual Chess Championship in Goa, where he competed against some of the world’s leading players.
Vaibhav Gautam, hailing from Uttar Pradesh and born on November 1, 2002, achieved a significant breakthrough in 2025. He secured a silver medal in the men’s wheelchair category at the World IPCA Individual Chess Championship, marking a pivotal milestone in his career. This achievement firmly established him among the leading competitors in his category worldwide, showcasing his skill and focus on the international stage.
Venkata Krishna Karthik K, a seasoned competitor from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, was born on November 14, 1986. His 2025 season was highlighted by a triumphant victory at the National Chess Competition for Specially Abled Persons, where he was crowned national champion. Earlier in the year, he entered the 5th National Chess Championship as the second seed and highest-ranked participant, further solidifying his reputation and earning him the opportunity to represent India at the World IPCA Individual Chess Championship.
As the eighth edition of TOISA approaches, the inspiring journeys of Samarth, Vaibhav, and Karthik reflect not only sporting excellence but also the spirit of perseverance that continues to motivate athletes across the nation. Their stories are a testament to the depth of talent present in Indian para sports, and they serve as an inspiration for future generations.
For more details on the awards and to stay updated, visit the TOISA 2025 microsite.