Chennai, India — The Velammal Nexus school campus was abuzz with excitement on August 10, 2024, as the institution prepared to celebrate the remarkable achievements of one of its own—18-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju, an emerging star in the chess world. With giant banners displaying his beaming face and 220 drones projecting his image into the sky, the atmosphere was that of a grand celebration typically reserved for movie stars and athletes.
The occasion was a fitting tribute to Gukesh’s outstanding accomplishment as the youngest player ever to win the Candidates Tournament, a prestigious event featuring 16 of the world’s top chess players competing for the chance to challenge the reigning world champion. Clad in his school uniform, Gukesh received a gift from Velammal Nexus: a sleek E-Class Mercedes Benz, symbolizing the support and pride the school community has for its young talent.
Gukesh is part of a burgeoning group of chess prodigies hailing from Tamil Nadu, a state in southern India that has become synonymous with chess excellence. Home to 31 grandmasters, Tamil Nadu celebrates its passion for the game with dedicated institutions and even a temple dedicated to chess in Tiruvarur.
As Gukesh prepares to face off against Ding Liren of China at the World Chess Championship in Singapore, which starts Monday, the pressure mounts. This contest will consist of 14 intense matches extending into mid-December, as Gukesh strives to dethrone the seasoned 32-year-old champion.
The rise of chess in India has not been accidental; it stems from a rich tradition rooted in hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to nurturing talent. Schools like Velammal Nexus have been instrumental in identifying and cultivating young chess players, shaping dreams into achievements through dedicated coaching and supportive infrastructure.
Velavan Subbiah, the head coach at Velammal Nexus for over a decade, boasts an impressive roster of chess champions, including Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, who is fast becoming a household name alongside Gukesh. Under his guidance, the school’s chess program has expanded from about 300 students to an incredible 2,000, reflecting the growing interest in the game.
Within the academy’s vibrant setting, students train diligently, learning from both successes and setbacks. Support does not stop at the academy level; the school also provides financial assistance to promising young talents, offering scholarships and arranging travel for competitions, ensuring logistics are taken care of without additional burdens.
Moreover, the landscape of chess in India is evolving, with the state’s government backing initiatives that cultivate young players. The 2022 Chess Olympiad, relocated to Chennai amidst global tensions, showcased the state’s capabilities to host high-profile events and elevated public interest in chess even further. The excitement surrounding such competitions has helped demystify the game for many, drawing in young aspirants from cities to remote villages.
As India continues to establish itself as a chess powerhouse, the inspiration drawn from Gukesh’s journey resonates beyond the board. Young players, under the watchful eyes of their parents and coaches, are preparing to represent not just individual ambitions, but the hopes of an entire generation eager to make their mark on the global stage.
As Gukesh enters the World Chess Championship, he embodies the spirit and aspirations of countless aspiring champions across the nation, eagerly anticipating each move to checkmate his rivals and carve out a legacy for future generations.
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