Anuj Shrivatri Becomes India's 100th Grandmaster at ASEAN Plus Chess Championship

Historic Achievement for Indian Chess

Ozamiz [Philippines], November 8: Anuj Shrivatri, an International Master from Madhya Pradesh, has made history by winning the 7th ASEAN Plus Individual Open Chess Championship, thus becoming India's 100th Grandmaster and the first from his home state to earn this prestigious title.

Shrivatri clinched the title by amassing seven points from his last eight matches, despite facing a setback in the opening round. His remarkable performance not only secured him the championship but also marked a significant milestone for both Indian chess and Madhya Pradesh, as reported by ChessBase India.

This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy, as chess fans across India have been eagerly anticipating the emergence of the country's 100th Grandmaster, while Madhya Pradesh has been waiting for its inaugural titleholder.

Nitin Narang, President of the All India Chess Federation (AICF), extended his congratulations to Anuj Shrivatri for achieving this landmark as India's 100th Grandmaster after his victory at the 7th ASEAN+ Individual Chess Championships 2026. He hailed this achievement as a historic moment for Indian chess and expressed optimism about reaching the milestone of 200 Grandmasters in the future.

“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 in a post on X.