Anuj Shrivatri Crowned India's 100th Chess Grandmaster

International Master Anuj Shrivatri from Madhya Pradesh has made history by becoming India's 100th Chess Grandmaster. This significant achievement also marks him as the first player from his home state to earn the prestigious title. Shrivatri secured this milestone by winning the 7th ASEAN Individual Chess Championships 2026, held in Ozamiz City, Philippines, an event that has garnered considerable attention within the Indian chess community.

Shrivatri's journey to the Grandmaster title was marked by a strong performance, where he accumulated seven points from his final eight games. This impressive run followed an initial defeat in the opening round of the championship, demonstrating resilience and strategic prowess. His overall performance not only earned him the tournament victory but also the direct Grandmaster title, a moment hailed by ChessBase India as a significant milestone for both Indian chess and Madhya Pradesh.

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) President, Nitin Narang, extended his congratulations to Anuj Shrivatri on this historic accomplishment. Narang praised Shrivatri for winning the 7th ASEAN Individual Chess Championships 2026 and securing the direct GM title, calling it a "historic milestone and a proud moment for Indian chess." In a post on X, Narang enthusiastically declared, "GRANDMASTER No. 100 FOR BHARAT! India achieves a historic milestone as Anuj Shrivatri becomes the country's 100th Grandmaster... Congratulations, Anuj! A proud moment for Indian chess. Onwards to 200 Grandmasters." This sentiment reflects the long-awaited anticipation for India to reach its centennial Grandmaster, as well as Madhya Pradesh's wait for its first.

What to watch: India's continued progress towards 200 chess Grandmasters.

Editor's note: The draft effectively incorporates all provided source details, including the specific tournament location and the AICF president's comments.