Gukesh has created history as the youngest World Chess Champion. Learn about his journey, the role of Velammal School, and Chennai's rise as India's chess hub.
India's 18-year-old Grandmaster, Gukesh D, made history by winning the 2024 World Chess Championship title. He not only became the youngest ever World Chess Champion but also the second Indian Grandmaster, after Viswanathan Anand, to achieve this remarkable feat. His victory has brought immense pride to the nation. Gukesh's school, Velammal School in Mogappair, Chennai, has earned a reputation as a hub for chess talent, having also produced other grandmasters like R Praggnanandhaa.
Chess Stars Associated with Velammal
Chennai is renowned as "India's Chess Capital," with private chess academies having been established in the city since the 1970s. In the 1980s. World Champion Viswanathan Anand began his chess journey at the Soviet Cultural Centre. His success brought a new identity to chess in Chennai and across the nation. Today, the city boasts over 60 recognised chess academies, including prominent institutions like "Chess Gurukul" and "Indian Chess School." "Chess Gurukul" is led by Grandmaster RB Ramesh, who is also the coach of Praggnanandhaa.
Founded in 1986 by MV Muthuramalingam, the Velammal Group has been a strong advocate for sports alongside education. Muthuramalingam established the institution in honour of his mother, Velammal. Today, the Velammal Group operates 56 schools and colleges across Tamil Nadu. The '7 to 17 Program,' launched by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa in 2013, played a key role in strengthening Velammal’s chess players.
As a result, Velammal School has won the World School Chess Championship title five times consecutively. Velammal School not only provided Gukesh with the necessary resources for his game but also played a vital role in his mental and technical preparation. The teachers and coaches worked tirelessly to help him achieve this remarkable milestone.
Also read:Gukesh D: Know more about the Youngest World Chess Champion
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