Anuj Shrivatri Becomes India's 100th Grandmaster, Celebrated by Chess Legends

Anuj Shrivatri has etched his name in history by becoming India's 100th Grandmaster, a significant achievement celebrated by chess legend Viswanathan Anand. Competing at the 7th ASEAN Plus Individual Open Chess Championship, Shrivatri's journey to this milestone is marked by resilience and skill. Anand's heartfelt congratulations highlight the importance of this moment for Indian chess, as the nation looks forward to reaching the next milestone of 200 Grandmasters. This achievement not only honors Shrivatri but also brings pride to Madhya Pradesh, marking a new chapter in the state's chess legacy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 8, 2026, 23:53 IST

Historic Achievement in Indian Chess

On November 8, in New Delhi, five-time world chess champion Viswanathan Anand extended his congratulations to Anuj Shrivatri, who has made history by becoming India's 100th Grandmaster. Anand referred to this milestone as a "cracker of a 100."

Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, Anuj Shrivatri clinched the title after triumphing at the 7th ASEAN Plus Individual Open Chess Championship, marking him as the first Grandmaster from his state.

Despite losing in the opening round, Shrivatri rebounded impressively, accumulating seven points from his last eight games, which secured him both the tournament victory and the Grandmaster title. This accomplishment is a significant milestone for both Indian chess and Madhya Pradesh, as noted by ChessBase India.

In a post on X, Anand expressed his joy, stating, "Happy Diwali. A cracker of a 100. Congrats to @AnujShrivatri on getting India to this milestone. Interestingly, I was just thinking that December 2027 will mark the 40th anniversary of my GM title, and this moment feels like a manifestation of that thought."

Shrivatri's success is particularly noteworthy as chess fans in India have eagerly anticipated the arrival of the country's 100th Grandmaster, while Madhya Pradesh has been waiting for its first player to achieve this prestigious honor.

Nitin Narang, President of the All India Chess Federation (AICF), also congratulated Shrivatri, calling his achievement a historic milestone and a proud moment for Indian chess. He expressed optimism that India would soon reach the milestone of 200 Grandmasters.

"GRANDMASTER No. 100 FOR BHARAT! India achieves a historic milestone as Anuj Shrivatri becomes the country’s 100th Grandmaster by winning the 7th ASEAN+ Individual Chess Championships 2026 in Ozamiz City, Philippines, securing the direct GM title! Congratulations, Anuj! A proud moment for Indian chess. Onwards to 200 Grandmasters," he shared on X.