Lakhipuronline Digital Desk : In a historic feat, 18-year-old Gukesh D from Chennai, India, has clinched the title of the youngest ever FIDE World Chess Champion by defeating Ding Liren in the final game of the championship held at the Equarius Hotel Sentosa, Sentosa Island, Singapore. This triumph marks a significant moment for Indian chess, as Gukesh follows in the footsteps of the legendary Viswanathan Anand to become only the second Indian to hold the world title.
Family Background: Gukesh was born on May 29, 2006, to Dr. Rajinikanth, an ENT surgeon, and Dr. Padma, a microbiologist. His parents’ dedication to his career is evident as his father sacrificed his medical practice to support Gukesh’s chess journey, while his mother took on the role of the family’s primary breadwinner. This commitment from his family underpins the sacrifices made to nurture Gukesh’s prodigious talent, with his mother providing emotional support and his father managing his chess career logistics.
Educational and Chess Journey: Gukesh began his chess education at the age of seven at Velammal School in Chennai, where his talent was quickly recognized. He left regular schooling after Class IV to focus entirely on chess. His rapid ascent in the chess world included becoming India’s youngest Grandmaster at the age of 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days, and later overtaking Anand as India’s highest-ranked player in 2023. Gukesh’s achievements also include winning the prestigious Candidates Tournament in 2024, setting the stage for his world championship challenge.This victory not only cements Gukesh’s place in chess history but also highlights the potential of young Indian talents in the global arena. His journey from a young chess enthusiast to the world champion is a testament to his skill, dedication, and the unwavering support from his family.