India has officially become the fourth country globally to reach the milestone of 100 chess Grandmasters. This achievement was marked on November 8, 2026, when Anuj Shrivatri from Katni, Madhya Pradesh, secured his title at the ASEAN Plus Open held in the Philippines. The journey to this significant number has been gradual, with the first 27 years of Indian chess history lacking any Grandmaster representation.

Historical Context of Indian Grandmasters

The inception of India’s Grandmaster journey began in 1988 when Viswanathan Anand became the nation’s first Grandmaster. For two years, he stood alone in this elite category until Dibyendu Barua joined him as the second Grandmaster in 1991. By the turn of the millennium, the total number of Grandmasters had only increased to three, indicating a slow start to the country’s chess development.

However, the numbers began to rise significantly after the early 2000s. By 2013, India had 32 Grandmasters, and just four years later, the count reached 50. The acceleration in the growth of Grandmasters has been remarkable, with the subsequent 50 being added in less than nine years. Notably, 2026 alone saw the addition of ten new Grandmasters, showcasing a rapid expansion in talent and training.

Geographically, the base of Indian chess has broadened considerably. Anuj Shrivatri, at 22, not only became the 100th Grandmaster but also the first from Madhya Pradesh. This development highlights the increasing diversity within the chess community across the country, as Grandmasters now represent various states including Assam, Rajasthan, and Goa.

Regional Contributions to Chess in India

Tamil Nadu remains the leading state in producing Grandmasters, having established a strong chess culture largely attributed to the influence of Viswanathan Anand. His achievements ignited a chess revolution in the state, paving the way for emerging talents such as R Praggnanandhaa and D Gukesh. The legacy of chess in Tamil Nadu continues to thrive, contributing significantly to the overall number of Grandmasters in India.

Currently, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and West Bengal collectively account for 65 per cent of India’s Grandmasters. This concentration of talent underscores the regional strengths in chess, while the overall list now features representatives from 14 different states, illustrating the sport’s growing popularity across the nation.

The rise in the number of Grandmasters reflects not only individual achievements but also the increasing infrastructure and support for chess in India. Various chess academies and training programmes have emerged, fostering young talents and providing them with the necessary resources to excel in the sport. The future of Indian chess appears promising, with a solid foundation established for the next generation of players.

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