Gukesh becomes youngest world chess champion

Indian chess prodigy Gukesh Dommaraju received a triumphant welcome in Chennai after making history as the youngest-ever world chess champion at age 18. The newly crowned champion was greeted by thousands of enthusiastic supporters and a media frenzy at Chennai airport, where he proudly displayed his championship trophy while draped in traditional flower garlands.

Gukesh's historic victory came after defeating China's Ding Liren in an intense championship match in Singapore that lasted nearly three weeks and spanned 14 games. The win marked a significant milestone in chess history, breaking Garry Kasparov's long-standing record of becoming world champion at age 22. He becomes the second Indian to hold the prestigious title after five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, who also hails from Chennai.

The teenage grandmaster, who achieved that title at just 12 years, seven months, and 17 days, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, telling the crowd, "It means a lot to bring back the trophy to India." Despite typically being reserved and accustomed to quiet tournaments, Gukesh appeared moved by the rock star reception, which included young fans from his school, Vellamal International, holding placards and photos celebrating their new hero.

The celebration drew parallels, albeit on a smaller scale, to the reception given to India's cricket team after their T20 World Cup victory. Gukesh's father, a doctor who has supported his son's journey throughout, accompanied him in a specially decorated car from the airport.

The young champion's achievement has already drawn praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who lauded it as a "remarkable accomplishment" that will inspire millions of young minds. Gukesh is scheduled to be honored by the Tamil Nadu state government and is expected to meet with Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi later this month.

This historic victory has not only secured Gukesh's place in chess history but has also given a significant boost to chess as a professional sport in India, traditionally dominated by cricket enthusiasm.