Image Source: Times Of India
Key highlights
International Chess Day 2025 arrives with India basking in the global spotlight, thanks to a series of electrifying performances from its rising grandmasters. D Gukesh and R Praggnanandhaa have turned heads in the international chess circuit with their headline-grabbing victories over the legendary Magnus Carlsen, reasserting India’s ascendance among chess powerhouse nations.
A Historic Streak Against Carlsen
D Gukesh, reigning World Champion at just 19, delivered a breakthrough classical win against Carlsen in Round 6 of the Norway Chess 2025 tournament. Despite being on the back foot for much of the game, Gukesh's resilience transformed a nearly lost position into a historic victory, causing visible frustration for Carlsen and widespread celebration in India.
This was Gukesh’s first-ever classical triumph over Carlsen and only the second time in the competition’s history that an Indian has beaten the Norwegian great, the first being Praggnanandhaa in 2022. Gukesh’s win propelled him into title contention, ultimately finishing third in a fiercely competitive field.
Praggnanandhaa’s Fast-Format Feat
Praggnanandhaa continued his giant-killing reputation by toppling Carlsen at the Freestyle Chess event in Las Vegas. In a dramatic 10-minute + 10-second rapid match, Praggnanandhaa kept his nerves and executed precise play to secure victory, further shaking Carlsen’s confidence on the global stage.
These wins are not isolated: both young grandmasters have consistently challenged Carlsen across events and formats, signaling a competitive generational shift in top-level chess.
Impact on the Chess World
Carlsen—long considered an unstoppable force—openly acknowledged the mental toll these defeats have taken, admitting that losses to Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa have left him "shellshocked," a testament to the psychological and sporting impact India’s youth movement is having on global chess.
India's chess revolution is seen not just in wins and trophies but in growing fan bases, sponsorship deals, and the global visibility of Indian players now influencing major tournaments and setting new benchmarks.
The Road Ahead
Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and a new wave of Indian grandmasters are now central figures at elite tournaments, inspiring a generation at home and keeping the world’s spotlight fixed on India’s chess tables as the sport continues to evolve.
Sources: Organiser, Chess.com, Hindustan Times, Mathrubhumi
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