Imagine being 12 years old and already one of the youngest Grandmasters in the history of chess. For Dommaraju Gukesh, or simply “Gukesh,” this isn’t just a dream—it’s his story. Born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai, India, Gukesh has carved out a place for himself in the global chess arena with sheer talent, determination, and a passion for the game that shines through every move he makes.
Humble Beginnings and Family Support:
Gukesh’s journey began in the most unassuming way. Introduced to chess at the age of seven, he quickly fell in love with the 64 squares. His parents, Rajinikanth and Padma, were instrumental in nurturing his budding interest. Despite their busy careers—his father as an ENT surgeon and his mother as a microbiologist—they made time to support their son’s passion.
At home, Gukesh wasn’t treated like a superstar. His parents emphasized discipline and education, ensuring that chess didn’t take over his childhood entirely. But even they couldn’t ignore his extraordinary talent. With their encouragement and the guidance of dedicated coaches, Gukesh began climbing the ranks at an astonishing pace.
Breaking Records and Making History:
By the time he was 12, Gukesh had achieved what most chess players can only dream of—earning the prestigious Grandmaster title. At just 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days old, he became the second-youngest Grandmaster in the world, missing the top spot by just 17 days. But this was only the beginning.
In 2022, Gukesh became a household name during the Chess Olympiad in Chennai, his hometown. Representing India, he played on the top board and delivered a spectacular performance, scoring 9 out of 11 points and winning a gold medal. His nerves of steel and brilliant strategies captivated fans and earned praise from legends like Viswanathan Anand.
Then, in 2023,D Gukesh achieved a feat that many believed was symbolic of a generational shift in Indian chess—he surpassed Anand, the man who inspired him, in the FIDE rankings, becoming the highest-rated Indian chess player. At just 17, Gukesh was now competing on equal footing with the giants of the game.

What Sets Gukesh Apart:
D Gukesh is not just a chess prodigy; he’s a player with a heart. Known for his aggressive and fearless style, he’s unafraid to take risks, even against the most seasoned opponents. Yet, off the board, he’s grounded and soft-spoken, a reflection of the values instilled in him by his family.
What makes Gukesh truly exceptional is his ability to stay calm under pressure. Whether it’s a high-stakes international tournament or a tough match against a world-class player, he approaches every game with quiet confidence and focus.
The New Face of Indian Chess:
India has always been proud of its chess tradition, with Viswanathan Anand leading the way for decades. Gukesh is now part of a new generation of Indian players who are taking the sport to new heights. Alongside peers like R. Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin, and Arjun Erigaisi, he’s part of a golden era for Indian chess. Together, they’re inspiring a whole new wave of young players to dream big.
Dreams of the Future:
Despite his remarkable achievements, Gukesh remains grounded. His ultimate goal? To become the World Chess Champion. He knows it won’t be easy—players like Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi stand in his way—but he’s ready for the challenge.
At just 18, D Gukesh has time on his side. With every tournament, he’s learning, growing, and getting closer to his dream.
Why Gukesh Inspires Us:
D Gukesh’s story is not just about chess—it’s about the power of hard work, humility, and family support. From his early days as a curious seven-year-old to becoming one of the top players in the world, Gukesh has shown us that age is no barrier to greatness.
His journey is a reminder that talent alone isn’t enough; it takes dedication, resilience, and the courage to take risks. As Gukesh continues to rise, he carries with him the hopes of a nation and the admiration of chess lovers everywhere.