In a remarkable display of talent, strategy, and composure, 9-year-old Sattwik Swain from Bhubaneswar has won the National Under-9 Chess Championship 2025, emerging as India’s newest chess prodigy. Sattwik secured the championship with an impressive 10 out of 11 points, outplaying top young contenders from across the country.
The tournament, held in New Delhi, witnessed intense competition over several rounds, but Sattwik maintained his lead with a mix of tactical brilliance and calm under pressure. His near-perfect score is being hailed as one of the most dominant performances in the tournament’s recent history.
A student of Class 4, Sattwik began learning chess at the age of five and has quickly climbed the ranks in the junior chess circuit. His coaches credit his deep focus, creative playstyle, and ability to read the board several moves ahead as key strengths.
“We always knew he had potential, but this performance is beyond expectations. He’s shown maturity far beyond his age,” said his coach.
Sattwik’s victory not only brings pride to Odisha but also adds to India’s growing list of young chess talents making waves on national and international stages. The All India Chess Federation (AICF) congratulated him, calling him a “future Grandmaster in the making.”
With this national title, Sattwik is now eligible to represent India in upcoming Asian and World Youth Chess Championships. His family and trainers are already preparing a roadmap to support his continued growth, including participation in FIDE-rated international events.
At just 9 years old, Sattwik Swain has captured the attention of India’s chess community with a championship-winning performance. With the board as his battlefield and strategy as his sword, this young mind from Bhubaneswar is proving that the future of Indian chess is in brilliant hands.
