R Praggnanandhaa: The Rising Star of World Chess

Amit Singh

Pune, 25th August 2023: In the world of chess, where strategy, intellect, and perseverance meet, a young prodigy is making waves and etching his name in history. R Praggnanandhaa, affectionately known as Praggu, has emerged as a powerhouse on the chessboard, leaving an indelible mark on the global chess scene.

Hailing from Chennai, Praggnanandhaa was born on August 10, 2005, to parents Rameshbabu and Nagalaxmi. The chess genes run strong in his family, with his elder sister Vaishali being a chess champion in her own right, having claimed the youth championship twice.

Praggnanandhaa’s journey in the world of chess began with the inspiration of his sister’s own prowess. His exceptional talent was unveiled in 2013 when, at the tender age of 7, he secured victory in the Under-8 World Youth Chess Championship. This achievement not only earned him acclaim but also the coveted title of FIDE Master. He repeated his triumph in the U-10 category in 2015.

In a series of remarkable milestones, Praggnanandhaa secured the title of Youngest International Master in 2016, at the incredibly young age of 10 years and 10 months. The following year, he earned his first Grandmaster Norm at the World Junior Chess Championship.

A feat that stands as a testament to his incredible skills came in 2018 when, at just 12 years, 10 months, and 13 days old, Praggnanandhaa became the second youngest Grandmaster in history. His victory against Luco Moroni at the Gredine Open in Italy marked this historic achievement.

Another highlight in Praggnanandhaa’s journey was his victory against none other than the reigning World Chess Champion, Magnus Carlsen, in 2022 at the online Airthings Masters. This accomplishment placed him in an elite league of only three Indians to have bested Carlsen.

Notably, at the age of 18, Praggnanandhaa secured his place in the FIDE World Cup final by defeating world no. 3 Fabiano Caruana in the tie-breaker. This achievement mirrored the footsteps of the legendary Viswanathan Anand, making him the second Indian to reach this prestigious milestone.

As the chess world witnesses Praggnanandhaa’s meteoric rise, his dedication, skill, and triumphs continue to inspire a generation of chess enthusiasts. With his name shining bright, this young chess prodigy is redefining the boundaries of achievement in the realm of chess, leaving a legacy that will undoubtedly inspire for years to come.