In Chennai, India, the school campus of Velammal Nexus was abuzz with excitement on August 10, 2024, as hundreds of students gathered to welcome their young chess champion, Gukesh Dommaraju. Giant banners of the smiling teen adorned the school grounds, and 220 drones projected his face into the sky as students held up placards to wish him luck. This unprecedented display of adulation usually reserved for movie stars and cricketers marked a new star in the world of chess.
Clad in his school uniform, 18-year-old Gukesh accepted a luxurious Mercedes Benz as a gift from his school, despite not yet having a driver’s license. The event was held to honor his remarkable achievements, including becoming the youngest ever winner of the Candidates Tournament, a prestigious event in the chess world.
Gukesh is part of a new generation of chess prodigies emerging from the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, which boasts an impressive number of grandmasters. The state has cultivated a culture of chess excellence, with dedicated coaches and supportive parents playing a crucial role in nurturing young talent.
At the Velammal Nexus school, renowned for producing chess champions like Gukesh and Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, coach Velavan Subbiah has been instrumental in shaping the future stars of Indian chess. The school’s chess academy, with over 2,000 students enrolled, provides a nurturing environment for budding chess enthusiasts to hone their skills.
The rise of a new generation of chess talents, mentored by legends like Vishwanathan Anand, has propelled Indian chess to new heights. With the support of the state government and a growing interest in the sport, Tamil Nadu has become a hub for chess excellence, attracting global attention with events like the Chess Olympiad.
The success of Indian chess is a testament to the dedication and sacrifices of players, coaches, and parents who have embraced the game as more than just a hobby. As Gukesh and his peers gear up to represent India on the world stage, the legacy of excellence in Indian chess continues to inspire a new generation of players and fans.