Chennai’s Ilamparthi AR Becomes India’s 90th Chess Grandmaster at Just 16

Tamil Nadu’s Golden Chess Legacy Shines Again

Tamil Nadu has reaffirmed its status as the epicentre of Indian chess. On Thursday, 16-year-old Ilamparthi AR from Chennai became the country’s 90th Grandmaster after securing his final norm at the Bijeljina Open in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Born in 2009, Ilamparthi completed a remarkable journey marked by consistency and discipline. He earned his first GM norm at the Ha Noi tournament in Vietnam in December 2023, followed by his second at the Singapore International Open in 2024. Crossing the crucial 2500 Elo rating during the Rilton Cup (2024–25) set the stage for his final triumph in Bosnia.

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A Rising Star with Global Recognition

A student of Velammal School — the same institution that nurtured talents like D. Gukesh and R. Praggnanandhaa — Ilamparthi has been regarded as one of India’s most promising young players for years. He trains under Grandmaster Shyam Sundar M and receives support through various chess development programs.

His potential caught international attention early. In 2022, Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri donated his “Death Match” prize money to fund Ilamparthi’s training — a gesture that underscored the youngster’s growing reputation in the global chess community.

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Praise from Legends and Leaders

Congratulatory messages poured in soon after his achievement was confirmed.
“All-India Chess Federation president Nitin Narang posted on X: ‘Grandmaster No. 90 for Bharat! Congratulations to Ilamparthi AR on fulfilling all the requirements to become the 90th Grandmaster of the country. Wishing you many more laurels and continued success in making the nation proud.’”

Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, under whose WestBridge Anand Chess Academy Ilamparthi trains, also shared his pride:

“Happy to announce Ilamparthi as a GM! He missed the title on a few occasions but came back stronger each time. He has a lot of potential, and we hope to work together towards greater achievements.”

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Carrying Forward a Legacy

Ilamparthi’s rise adds another milestone to Tamil Nadu’s extraordinary contribution to Indian chess. The state has produced a majority of India’s Grandmasters, including Anand, Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Arjun Kalyan.

As India celebrates its 90th Grandmaster, Ilamparthi’s story stands as a testament to perseverance, mentorship, and the power of early investment in talent — a shining reminder that Chennai remains the heartbeat of Indian chess.