Watch: Anand, Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa & Vidit Dance in Viral Videos

Introduction

Indian chess legends recently came together for a joyous Pongal celebration, blending tradition and camaraderie. Hosted by five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand at his Tamil Nadu residence, the event featured young talents like D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi. From festive breakfasts to traditional dances, this heartwarming gathering highlighted the cultural richness and mentorship in Indian chess. Join us as we delve into their celebration, legacy, and the bright future of Indian chess through Vidit Gujrathi's inspiring journey.

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Viswanathan Anand, D Gukesh and Vidit Gujrathi dance during Pongal breakfast

During the Pongal celebrations at Viswanathan Anand's residence, Indian chess legends including Anand, D Gukesh, and Vidit Gujrathi showcased their dance moves in a joyful gathering. Dressed in traditional attire, the chess icons celebrated the festival's spirit by dancing to the song "Manasilaayo". The event, which also featured Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, highlighted the camaraderie among these champions and went viral on social media. This festive occasion not only marked the Tamil New Year but also reflected the growing prominence of chess in India, with Anand continuing to mentor the next generation of players.

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Their Impact on Indian Chess

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The impact of Viswanathan Anand, D Gukesh, and Vidit Gujrathi on Indian chess is profound and transformative. Anand, as the first Indian Grandmaster and a five-time World Champion, laid the foundation for chess in India, inspiring countless players to pursue the game professionally. His achievements have catalyzed a surge in chess popularity, leading to the current count of over 90 Grandmasters in the country.

D Gukesh, one of the youngest Grandmasters in history, represents the new generation of Indian chess talent. Under Anand's mentorship at the Westbridge Anand Chess Academy, Gukesh has quickly risen through the ranks, recently qualifying for the Candidates Tournament, showcasing India's emerging prowess on the world stage.

Vidit Gujrathi has also played a crucial role, particularly as a leader during team events like the Online Chess Olympiad, where India clinched gold. His consistent performances and strategic insights have made him a pivotal figure in Indian chess. Together, these players not only elevate India's status in international chess but also inspire future generations to embrace the game.

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Early Life of Vidit Gujrathi

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Vidit Santosh Gujrathi was born on October 24, 1994, in Nashik, India, into a supportive family with his parents, Dr. Santosh and Dr. Nikita Gujrathi. He began playing chess at a young age, receiving formal coaching that helped him develop his skills early on. Vidit attended Fravashi Academy, where he honed his chess abilities and participated in various tournaments.

His early achievements include finishing second in the Asian Youth Championships (U12) in 2006, which earned him the title of FIDE Master. In 2008, he made history by becoming the first Indian to win the World Youth Chess Championship in the U14 category. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career and laid the groundwork for future successes.

By 2010, Vidit reached a 2500 rating, earning his first Grandmaster norm. His early life was characterized by dedication and hard work, supported by his family’s encouragement and guidance. These formative years were crucial in shaping Vidit into one of India's leading chess players, setting the stage for his subsequent achievements on the international chess circuit.

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Career From 2013 to 2017

From 2013 to 2017, Vidit Gujrathi's career flourished following his Grandmaster title in January 2013. He achieved notable results in various international tournaments, including a bronze medal at the World Junior Chess Championship and crossing the critical Elo rating threshold of 2600. His performances in events like the Dubai Open and Reykjavik Open highlighted his consistent growth and competitiveness on the global chess stage.

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Notable results

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Throughout his career, Vidit has achieved several notable results:

• World Junior Chess Championship (2013): Bronze medalist.
• Tata Steel Challengers (2018): Winner with an undefeated score of 9/13.
• Biel Chess Festival (2019): Winner by a significant margin.
• FIDE Grand Swiss Tournament (2023): Winner with a score of 8/11.

These accomplishments reflect not only his skill but also his resilience against some of the world's best players.

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Recent Success

In recent years, Vidit has continued to build upon his impressive track record:

• In 2022 and 2023, he participated actively in various prestigious tournaments.
• His victory at the FIDE Grand Swiss Tournament qualifies him for the Candidates Tournament—a significant milestone that could lead him to challenge for the World Championship title.
• Additionally, his performance during these years has kept him consistently ranked among India's top players.

Olympiad

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Vidit's leadership during team events has been commendable:

• As captain during the Online Chess Olympiad (2020), he led India to its first-ever gold medal.
• His strategic insight and ability to motivate teammates played crucial roles during this historic victory.
• In subsequent Olympiads, including participation as board one for India at major events like Chennai Olympiad (2022), he continued to showcase his skills while representing India on an international platform.

Championship Chances

Vidit Gujrathi's championship chances are currently promising as he competes in the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2024. After a remarkable performance at the Grand Swiss 2023, where he secured his qualification, Vidit has shown resilience and skill, notably defeating top players like Hikaru Nakamura. As of now, he stands in sixth place with five points, trailing behind his compatriots D Gukesh and R Praggnanandhaa.

With four rounds remaining, Vidit has the potential to improve his standing significantly. His experience and strategic acumen will be crucial as he faces formidable opponents. Although he is not the favorite, his ability to produce surprising results against elite players keeps him in contention. If he can replicate his earlier successes in the tournament, Vidit could very well position himself for a strong finish, further solidifying his status as one of India's leading chess talents and enhancing his chances for future championships.

Youth Championships and Rise in Chess

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Vidit Gujrathi's ascent in chess began with significant achievements in youth championships, which laid the groundwork for his future success. In 2006, he secured second place in the Asian Youth Championship (U12), earning his FIDE Master title. His breakthrough came in 2008 when he became the first Indian to win the World Youth Chess Championship in the U14 category, marking a pivotal moment in his early career.

Vidit's continued success in youth tournaments culminated in a bronze medal at the World Junior Chess Championship in 2013, where he finished with a score of 9.5/13. This accomplishment placed him among an elite group of Indian players who have excelled at the junior level, following in the footsteps of legends like Viswanathan Anand.

These early victories not only showcased Vidit's talent but also inspired a new generation of chess players in India, contributing significantly to the country's rising prominence in the global chess arena. His journey reflects the potential for young talents to achieve greatness through dedication and hard work.

Awards and Nominations

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vidit Gujrathi’s remarkable journey from a prodigious talent to one of India’s leading chess players epitomizes dedication, resilience, and brilliance. His achievements have elevated India’s status in global chess, while his leadership inspires the next generation of players. As he prepares for greater challenges like the Candidates Tournament 2024, Vidit remains a beacon of hope and pride for Indian chess. With his skill and determination, the future holds immense promise for both Vidit and the nation he represents.