Tamil Nadu govt Felicitates Youngest Chess Champion D. Gukesh with Rs.5 Crore.

Rajagopal P Swamy 

C hennai:In a grand ceremony titled “18th @ 18” to celebrate the 18-year-old’s historic achievement,Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Tuesday felicitated newly crowned World Chess Champion D.Gukesh and presented him with a Rs.5 crore reward.

The event lauded Gukesh’s remarkable journey from a seven-year-old to the pinnacle of world chess in just 11 years.

Chief Minister Stalin urged Tamil Nadu’s youth to draw inspiration from Gukesh’s unwavering dedication and hard work.

Furthermore,Stalin announced the establishment of a specialized chess academy, “Home of Chess,”under the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT).

Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin emphasized Gukesh’s win as a testament to Chennai’s global prominence in chess,expressing pride in the state’s contribution to his success.

Legendary Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand,a five-time World Champion,acknowledged Tamil Nadu’s role as India’s chess capital and praised the government’s consistent support for players.He highlighted Gukesh’s unwavering composure as a key factor in his success.

Earlier in the day,Gukesh was paraded through Wallajah Road,holding his championship trophy aloft amidst cheering crowds.