The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awards were announced on Thursday, honoring 18-year-old chess prodigy D Gukesh with the prestigious title. Other recipients include Manu Bhaker, Harmanpreet Singh, and Praveen Kumar.
Expressing his gratitude on social media, Gukesh thanked the Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sports and Cultural Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. He wrote: “Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, I am truly grateful and feel humbled to receive the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award.
“Your words and guidance have always inspired me to strive for excellence and make the nation proud. I promise to continue delivering my best moves on 64 squares and outside of it. Thank you Hon. Sports Minister @mansukhmandviya Ji for your constant support.”
D Gukesh meets PM Modi after winning World Chess Title
Gukesh made history as the youngest chess grandmaster to win the FIDE World Chess Championship. He defeated reigning champion Ding Liren, becoming only the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to claim the prestigious title.
Following this achievement, Gukesh had the privilege of meeting PM Modi with his family. After their meeting, Modi hailed him as “India’s pride.” He wrote: “Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, DGukesh!”
“I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. “In fact, I recall seeing a video of his few years ago where he had said he would become the youngest world champion – a prediction that has now clearly come true thanks to his own efforts,”
Gukesh’s next challenge
As Gukesh gears up for his next major challenge, he is set to face World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in a highly anticipated showdown at the Stavanger Chess Tournament in Norway, scheduled from May 26 to June 6, 2025. The chess world eagerly awaits this exciting face-off, with Gukesh aiming to continue his remarkable journey on the global stage.
