At just eight years old, Anvi Hinge from Maharashtra is redefining what it means to be a chess prodigy. Her recent performance at the 2025 Western Asian Youth Chess Championship in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, was nothing short of extraordinary. Competing in the under-8 girls’ category, Anvi secured an impressive six medals: two golds in the team classical and team rapid events, and four silvers in individual classical, rapid, blitz and team blitz formats.
Anvi’s journey into the world of chess began at the tender age of four and a half, inspired by playing with her elder brother, Aarush. Recognizing her innate talent and passion, her parents enrolled her in formal coaching by the age of five. Since then, Anvi has been under the mentorship of FIDE Instructor Pratik Mulay at the Tactical Moves Chess Academy. Her rigorous daily routine includes playing at least five games, solving a minimum of 70 puzzles, and engaging in strategic analysis sessions.
Anvi’s dedication has led to a series of remarkable achievements. She clinched the Maharashtra Under-7 State Championship in 2024, dominating the tournament with a 6/7 score. Her victory was highlighted by a swift 18-move win against the then-leader, showcasing her tactical prowess. Additionally, she secured the third position at the 12th National School Chess Championship in the under-7 girls’ category, competing against over 900 participants from across the country.
Beyond her individual accolades, Anvi’s contributions have been instrumental in India’s overall success in international competitions. At the Western Asian Youth Chess Championship, India amassed a total of 125 medals, with Anvi’s six medals playing a significant role in this achievement.
Anvi’s story is a testament to the fact that age is no barrier when passion, discipline and resilience come together. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young aspirants worldwide, proving that with dedication and the right guidance, even the youngest minds can make significant moves on the global stage.
