In a landmark moment for Indian chess, 20-year-old Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa has achieved a historic milestone that has sent waves of pride across the nation. By delivering a series of outstanding performances throughout the FIDE Circuit 2025, the young talent has officially qualified for the Candidates Tournament 2026, becoming the first Indian player ever to secure a spot through the revamped FIDE qualification pathway.
Hailing from Chennai — a city already known as the cradle of modern Indian chess — Praggnanandhaa’s remarkable rise has been closely followed by fans, analysts, and legends of the sport. His consistency, precision, and fearless approach against the world’s strongest grandmasters have reaffirmed his status as one of the brightest young stars on the global stage.
This achievement is much more than a personal victory. It symbolizes India’s growing dominance in world chess, a movement ignited decades ago and now reaching extraordinary heights through the country’s new generation of prodigies. Praggnanandhaa’s qualification marks a powerful moment for India, reflecting not only his individual brilliance but also the collective strength of the nation’s rapidly advancing chess ecosystem.
As the world looks ahead to the Candidates Tournament 2026, expectations for the Indian grandmaster are soaring. The tournament, often regarded as the toughest in the chess universe, will decide the next challenger for the World Chess Championship title — and India is hopeful that Praggnanandhaa’s journey will script another chapter of historic firsts.
With millions of supporters rallying behind him, the young champion stands on the brink of greatness. His achievement has sparked immense national pride, and the entire chess community eagerly awaits the next step in his extraordinary quest for the world crown.
