India hits century in chess as Anuj Shrivatri becomes 100th Grandmaster, PM Modi hails feat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated Anuj Shrivatri on becoming India's 100th chess Grandmaster, describing the milestone as an exceptional achievement that reflected the country's growing strength in the sport.

Modi said India's entry into the exclusive club of nations with 100 Grandmasters highlighted the talent, dedication and hard work of its players, along with the increasing popularity of chess among youngsters.

"India has hit a century in chess! Exceptional isn't it? India is now home to a hundred chess Grandmasters! Congratulations to Anuj Shrivatri on becoming India's 100th Chess Grandmaster! What a wonderful achievement it is," the Prime Minister said in a post on X.

He expressed hope that the milestone would encourage more young Indians to take up the sport and strive for excellence.

"May this achievement inspire many more youngsters to take up chess and pursue excellence," Modi added.

Shrivatri, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, achieved the landmark after winning the 7th ASEAN Plus Individual Open Chess Championship in Sinacaban, Philippines, on Sunday.

His achievement marks another significant chapter in India's chess journey, which began with legendary player Viswanathan Anand becoming the country's first Grandmaster in 1988.

India has witnessed a rapid rise in the number of Grandmasters in recent years, with five players attaining the title between July and November 2026.

Before Shrivatri reached the century mark, Ethan Vaz, Harshvardhan GB, S Ashwath and V Rathnavel had joined the country's growing list of Grandmasters.

The milestone comes at a time when Indian chess is enjoying considerable international success, with D Gukesh holding the world championship title.

Gukesh, the reigning world champion, is scheduled to defend his crown later this month.

India's achievement of producing 100 Grandmasters underscores the expansion of competitive chess across the country and the emergence of a new generation of players making their mark internationally.