Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Honors R Praggnanandhaa After Norway Chess Triumph

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay felicitated Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa on Monday and presented him with a cash reward of ₹50 lakh on behalf of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, in recognition of his recent triumph at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament. The 20-year-old chess prodigy, who made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious title, was honoured during a ceremony held at the Chief Secretariat in Chennai, where the Chief Minister also interacted with him over a friendly chess game.

The government described Praggnanandhaa’s achievement as a landmark moment for Indian chess, noting that his victory in Oslo showcased his consistency and ability to compete against the world’s top-ranked players. The young Grandmaster secured the title after defeating Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round, finishing ahead of a highly competitive field that included reigning world champion D. Gukesh, world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, and other elite international players. Officials said the recognition reflects the state’s continued support for sporting excellence.

During the event, Praggnanandhaa also spoke about his interaction with the Chief Minister, revealing that he was invited to play a casual game of chess during the ceremony. According to him, he was asked to bring a chessboard, after which the two played for about 15 minutes. The Grandmaster said he did not expect the Chief Minister to play, adding that the match was conducted in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, despite his own win in the informal game.

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The Chief Minister’s Office later confirmed the interaction in an official statement posted on social media platform X, noting that the event included both the felicitation and the symbolic chess match. The statement highlighted Praggnanandhaa’s achievement at the Norway Chess series in Oslo and emphasized the significance of the recognition, which included the ₹50 lakh cash incentive presented to him for his sporting excellence and contribution to Indian chess.

The ceremony comes amid increased attention on Tamil Nadu’s investment in sports development and recognition of young athletes achieving success on international platforms. State authorities have in recent years expanded financial incentives and support systems aimed at encouraging emerging talent across disciplines, particularly chess, where Tamil Nadu has produced several world-class players in recent decades.

Separately, the Chief Minister, who was sworn into office earlier this year, continues to maintain a public profile that combines governance with cultural and sporting engagements. His interactions with prominent figures from various fields, including sports, have been part of ongoing efforts to highlight youth achievement and promote the state’s image as a hub for talent development. Praggnanandhaa’s latest victory further strengthens India’s growing presence in global chess competition.

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