New Delhi: In the annals of chess history, the recent triumph of 18-year-old D. Gukesh in the World Chess Championship stands as a monumental testament to India's growing dominance in the intellectual sport. This victory is not just a personal achievement for Gukesh but a landmark in India’s chess narrative, one that has been centuries in the making and has now reached unprecedented heights.

The roots of chess in India trace back to the 6th century with the game of Chaturanga, widely acknowledged as the precursor to modern chess. Legends and historical texts like the Mahabharata and Ramayana describe board games resembling chess, indicating its deep-seated presence in Indian culture. Over centuries, as chess evolved through various civilizations, its Indian origin was somewhat lost, but the game's return to its cradle has been nothing short of spectacular.

India's modern chess resurgence can be directly linked to the emergence of Viswanathan Anand. In 1988, Anand became India's first Grandmaster, a title that marked the beginning of India's chess revolution. His subsequent five-time world championship wins between 2000 and 2013 not only placed India on the global chess map but also inspired a generation of chess enthusiasts across the nation. Anand's influence extends beyond his playing career; his work as a mentor and his role in setting up the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy have been pivotal in fostering young talent.

The groundwork laid by Anand has borne fruit in recent years, with India producing a cascade of grandmasters. This current era, often referred to as the time of "Vishy's children," has seen prodigies like Gukesh, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Arjun Erigaisi not only achieving the GM title at remarkably young ages but also challenging and defeating some of the world's best. Gukesh himself became the youngest ever to win the FIDE Candidates tournament, setting the stage for his historic championship win against Ding Liren.

Gukesh's victory at the World Chess Championship was a defining moment, securing the title by a score of 7.5 to 6.5 in a closely fought match. His performance was described by chess legends like Garry Kasparov as showcasing "an incredible level of fighting spirit" and "mental toughness," traits that have become synonymous with Indian chess players. This win was celebrated across India, not just for the personal glory of Gukesh but for what it symbolizes about the country's chess culture.

India's dominance was further underscored at the 2024 Chess Olympiad in Budapest, where both the men's and women's teams clinched gold, a feat reminiscent of the Soviet Union's chess supremacy. This Olympiad was particularly notable as India finished with a four-point lead in the Open section, surpassing previous records and demonstrating unparalleled team strength.

The infrastructure supporting this chess boom includes not only Anand's academy but also numerous chess clubs, national tournaments, and the All India Chess Federation's initiatives. The government's increasing support, both in terms of funding and recognition, has made chess a viable career for many. The availability of digital platforms has democratized access to chess education, allowing talents from every corner of the country to rise.

The narrative of Indian chess is one of a perfect blend of historical legacy and modern innovation. From the ancient strategies of Chaturanga to the sophisticated tactics of today’s grandmasters, India has woven a rich tapestry of chess culture. With Gukesh's championship victory, India not only reclaims its historical connection with chess but also declares its intent to lead the chess world into the future. The chessboard, much like the country itself, has become a stage for India to showcase its strategic depth, patience, and the emergence of a new chess superpower.

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Gukesh, the World Chess Champion: India's Chess Saga Reaches New Heights