Indian chess king Gukesh returns to hero’s welcome

AFP/APP

Chennai, India: India’s rising chess sensation, Gukesh Dommaraju, was greeted with a hero’s welcome upon his return to his hometown of Chennai on Monday.

The 18-year-old made history by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion, defeating China’s Ding Liren in a dramatic endgame in Singapore last week.

Hundreds of fans gathered at Chennai airport, with cheers and applause echoing through the arrivals area as Gukesh made his way out. Television cameras captured the emotional moment, as Gukesh, adorned with garlands of flowers, proudly held his glittering trophy aloft.

“It means a lot to bring back the trophy to India,” Gukesh said, visibly moved by the support. “I can see the support and what it means to India, I am glad to be here.” Petals were thrown into the air in celebration, covering his hair as fans expressed their joy.

Gukesh’s victory has captivated the nation, where cricket typically dominates the sports landscape. His win has ignited a wave of excitement, particularly among young fans, many of whom were from his school.

Holding placards and photos of their new hero, they were eager to celebrate his achievement and the growing prominence of chess in India.

After nearly three weeks and 14 games of intense competition, Gukesh triumphed over the seasoned 32-year-old Ding. In an emotional moment after his victory, Gukesh burst into tears, overwhelmed by the significance of his achievement.

Known for his reserved demeanor, Gukesh appeared stunned by the rock star-level welcome he received. “You guys are amazing,” he told fans, before being ushered into a car covered in posters of him, alongside his father. “You gave me so much energy,” he added.

This celebration mirrors the jubilant return of India’s cricket stars after their T20 World Cup victory earlier this year, showing the growing enthusiasm for chess as a professional sport in India.