Post by : Meena Ariff

In an inspiring tale from India, a three-year-old chess prodigy is breaking records. Sarwagya Singh Kushwaha, born in 2022, has made headlines by becoming the youngest officially rated chess player in the world, scoring an impressive rapid chess rating of 1,572.

Despite being only three, Sarwagya has triumphed over much older competitors, including those in their twenties and players vying alongside grandmasters. This remarkable feat fulfills the criteria for a FIDE rating, necessitating point accumulation against at least five rated players in sanctioned events.

Originating from Madhya Pradesh, Sarwagya started his chess journey at approximately two-and-a-half years old. His father, Siddharth Singh, shared, “We recognized his remarkable capacity to learn. Within a week of starting, he could accurately identify all the chess pieces.”

His keen focus, patience, and relentless practice distinguish him from peers. Sarwagya dedicates four to five hours daily to chess, including an hour at a training facility. Coach Nitin Chaurasiya applauded him for his boldness and rapid decision-making, revealing that early training often evoked tears but soon turned rewarding, with candy offered for correct moves.

For perspective, former world champion Magnus Carlsen began at five years old, while history’s youngest grandmaster, Gukesh D, started at seven. Sarwagya’s rapid ascent forecasts a bright future and underscores the rising stature of Indian chess enthusiasts from Madhya Pradesh.

Experts opine that Sarwagya’s record is more than a personal milestone; it reflects India's escalating prominence in the global chess arena. With his unique talent and dedication, he is poised to become a notable figure in the years ahead.

#Sports News