Tamil Nadu government felicitates World champion Gukesh

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin presenting a cheque for Rs. 5 crore to World chess champion D. Gukesh at a felicitation function in Chennai on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit: B. JOTHI RAMALINGAM

Newly crowned World chess champion D. Gukesh was felicitated at a grand function organised by the State Government and awarded a cheque for Rs. 5 crore by the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday. 

The event was appropriately titled ‘18th @ 18’ to commemorate the 18-year-old becoming the 18th World champion.

In his speech, the chief minister exhorted youngsters to take inspiration from Gukesh’s journey. “From starting as a seven-year-old to becoming the World champion, it took him just 11 years. So I want the youngsters of this state to look at Gukesh’s hard work, dedication, and single-minded focus on the task and take inspiration from him,” said Stalin.

The CM also announced the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) will establish a specialised chess academy called the ‘Home of Chess’.

In his welcome address, Tamil Nadu Deputy CM and Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said, “Gukesh’s win has yet again reinforced Chennai’s place on the world chess map, and the State takes immense pride in his success. I hope Gukesh’s feat helps take the sport to every nook and corner of the State.” 

Gukesh going on a ceremonial parade in Chennai on Tuesday.
| Photo Credit:
B. JOTHI RAMALINGAM

India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World champion, Viswanathan Anand, also noted that Tamil Nadu has been the capital of chess in India and praised the government’s support for the players over the years. 

“The promising talents here get immediate support right from the grassroots. I have had the privilege of working with Gukesh for the last four years and am happy to have played a small part in this. During the World Championship, many were impressed with his composure. There is never just one reason (for success), but if there was one, it is that he is unflappable,” said Anand.

D. Gukesh
| Photo Credit:
B. JOTHI RAMALINGAM

Earlier, before the glittering event, Gukesh was taken in a ceremonial parade to the venue through Wallajah Road. He held his world championship trophy aloft as the cheering public jostled to get a glimpse of the youngest World champion.