Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met D Gukesh, India’s rising chess star, following his historic victory at the World Chess Championship. At just 18, Gukesh became the youngest world champion, and he gifted the Prime Minister a signed chessboard as a token of appreciation.
The chessboard, signed by both Gukesh and his opponent Ding Liren, holds sentimental value for PM Modi, who praised Gukesh’s dedication, confidence, and calm approach.
During their meeting, PM Modi recalled a viral video where an 11-year-old Gukesh shared his dream of becoming the youngest chess champion. The Prime Minister congratulated Gukesh for achieving this dream through hard work and determination. The conversation also highlighted the importance of yoga and meditation in Gukesh’s journey, showing how these practices have contributed to his success.
PM Modi Meets D Gukesh
On Saturday, December 28, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met D Gukesh, the 18-year-old chess prodigy who recently won the World Chess Championship (WCC) in Singapore. Gukesh made history by becoming the youngest ever WCC winner, breaking a 40-year-old record set by the legendary Garry Kasparov.
After his victory, Gukesh, along with his parents, visited PM Modi at his New Delhi residence, where the Prime Minister praised his remarkable determination and dedication.
Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh!
I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video… pic.twitter.com/gkLfUXqHQp
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 28, 2024In a post on his official X handle, PM Modi shared his admiration for Gukesh: “Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh! I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video of his a few years ago where he said he would become the youngest world champion—a prediction that has now clearly come true thanks to his own efforts.”
Gukesh’s journey to the top has been extraordinary. On December 12, he defeated China’s Ding Liren in a hard-fought match to claim the World Chess Championship title in Singapore. At just 18, Gukesh broke the previous record set by Garry Kasparov, who won the championship at 22 in 1985. With this victory, Gukesh became only the second Indian, after Viswanathan Anand, to win the prestigious title.
Also Read: D Gukesh Forces Ding Liren to 4th Consecutive Draw in Marathon Game 7
Gukesh’s Journey to Becoming World Chess Champion
Gukesh’s path to becoming World Chess Champion was a test of both his mental and physical endurance. After losing the first game, he bounced back in Game 3 with a crucial win.
The next seven games ended in draws, keeping the match tightly contested. In Game 11, Gukesh outsmarted Ding Liren, but Ding responded with a flawless performance in Game 12, leveling the score at 6.5-6.5. This set the stage for a thrilling decider in the 14th and final game.
In the last classical game, Gukesh displayed exceptional precision and composure. Ding, playing with the white pieces, faltered on move 53, allowing Gukesh to capitalize on the mistake. He seized the opportunity and secured a historic 7.5-6.5 victory, becoming the youngest-ever undisputed World Chess Champion.
Despite the magnitude of his achievement, Gukesh remained humble, even rearranging the chess pieces after his win. His journey from an ambitious young boy to a world champion is a true reflection of his dedication, skill, and resilience, inspiring young athletes in India and across the globe.
Gukesh returned home with a prize of USD 1.3 million, earning admiration from the global chess community and securing his place in history as one of the sport’s most promising young talents.
Also Read: India Makes History with Rare Double Gold at Chess Olympiad 2024
FAQs
Q.1. Who is D Gukesh?
Ans. D Gukesh is an 18-year-old chess prodigy from India who became the youngest World Chess Champion, breaking Garry Kasparov’s 40-year-old record.
Q.2. What is D Gukesh’s historic achievement?
Ans. D Gukesh won the World Chess Championship at 18, becoming the youngest-ever undisputed champion, surpassing the record held by Garry Kasparov.
Q.3. How did D Gukesh win the World Chess Championship?
Ans. Gukesh defeated Ding Liren in a thrilling match, securing a 7.5-6.5 victory after a series of draws and a decisive win in the final game.
Q.4. What was PM Modi’s reaction to Gukesh’s victory?
Ans. PM Modi praised Gukesh for his dedication, confidence, and resilience, recalling a video from Gukesh’s childhood where he predicted becoming the youngest world champion.
Q.5. What prize did Gukesh receive for his victory?
Ans. D Gukesh won a prize of USD 1.3 million for his World Chess Championship victory.
