PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh, receives signed chess board from world champion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met India’s chess prodigy D Gukesh after his historic triumph at the World Chess Championship. The 18-year-old Grandmaster, who became the youngest world champion, gifted the Prime Minister a signed chessboard. The chessboard, autographed by Gukesh and his opponent Ding Liren, is a cherished memento for PM Modi, who praised Gukesh’s dedication, confidence, and calm demeanour.

During their conversation, the Prime Minister recalled a viral video of an 11-year-old Gukesh expressing his dream of becoming the youngest chess champion. PM Modi applauded Gukesh



for fulfilling this ambitious goal through hard work and perseverance. The meeting also showcased the transformative power of yoga and meditation, which Gukesh has embraced in his journey.

Gukesh’s journey to the top has been extraordinary. On December 12, he defeated China’s Ding Liren in a closely contested match to claim the World Chess Championship title in Singapore. At just 18 years, Gukesh shattered the record held by Russian legend Garry Kasparov, who became champion at 22 in 1985. This victory also made Gukesh only the second Indian, after Viswanathan Anand, to win the prestigious title.