New Delhi, India: The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) congratulates the All India Chess Federation (AICF) for hosting a remarkable felicitation ceremony in honor of two of India’s finest chess talents: Grandmaster D. Gukesh, the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, and Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, the reigning World Rapid Chess Champion. The event, held in New Delhi on January 16, 2025, was a celebration of their exceptional achievements and contributions to the global chess community.
Felicitation ceremony of chess champions
The prestigious ceremony saw both Gukesh and Humpy being honored for their groundbreaking performances on the world stage. The felicitation was a fitting tribute to the brilliance and resilience of these two chess champions, who have made India proud with their consistent and remarkable victories in the most challenging international competitions.
GM D. Gukesh – Youngest World Chess Champion
Grandmaster D. Gukesh, at just 18 years old, has rewritten history by becoming the youngest player to win the World Chess Championship. His meteoric rise in the chess world, culminating in his victory in the 2024 World Chess Championship, was a display of unparalleled skill, deep thinking, and remarkable composure under pressure.
Gukesh’s victory has not only elevated his personal career but has also placed India firmly at the forefront of global chess. The AICF’s tribute to Gukesh recognizes his commitment to excellence and his potential to lead Indian chess into a new era. His achievement has ignited a wave of excitement among chess enthusiasts across the nation, inspiring young talents to pursue the sport with passion and dedication.
GM Koneru Humpy – World Rapid Chess Champion
Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, who has long been a dominant figure in the world of women’s chess, was also honored at the ceremony for her recent triumph in the 2024 World Rapid Chess Championship. Humpy’s victory in the rapid format, a tournament renowned for its high-speed and intense nature, marked yet another significant milestone in her illustrious career.
With multiple World Championship titles and an unparalleled record in women’s chess, Humpy’s recent achievement further cemented her status as one of the greatest chess players of all time. Her performance at the World Rapid Chess Championship served as a testament to her adaptability, resilience, and unmatched intellect in the world of fast-paced chess formats.
A Moment of National Pride
The felicitation ceremony, organized by the All India Chess Federation, brought together chess enthusiasts, dignitaries, and fellow chess players to celebrate the accomplishments of two of India’s brightest stars. The event also served as an opportunity to acknowledge the growing stature of Indian chess in the global arena.
The IMSA, in a statement following the ceremony, expressed its pride in both Gukesh and Humpy. “These two extraordinary players represent the best of mind sports and exemplify the values of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual rigor that are the foundation of our association. Their success serves as an inspiration to players worldwide, especially in India, where chess is rapidly gaining prominence,” said Mr. Peter Hevia, President of IMSA.
A Bright Future for Indian Chess
As Gukesh and Humpy continue to push the boundaries of chess excellence, their influence is set to inspire the next generation of chess players in India and across the globe. Their achievements stand as a testament to the power of mind sports in shaping young minds, nurturing intellectual prowess, and fostering international camaraderie.
The felicitation ceremony also highlighted the growing support and recognition for chess in India. With institutions like the AICF playing a key role in developing and promoting chess talent, the future of Indian chess looks brighter than ever before.
The IMSA extends its warm congratulations to GM D. Gukesh and GM Koneru Humpy once again and looks forward to seeing their continued success on the world stage.
About International Mind Sports Association (IMSA):
The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) is a global organization that promotes intellectual and mind-based sports, including chess, bridge, Go, and others. IMSA aims to raise awareness about mind sports, increase participation, and celebrate excellence in these disciplines. By creating platforms for mental athletes to showcase their skills, IMSA strives to foster intellectual development and global unity through the power of mind sports.