NEW DELHI: In a historic achievement for Indian chess, Vaishali Rameshbabu secured her grandmaster title by surpassing 2,500 International Chess Federation (FIDE) ranking points during the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain on Friday.
The 20-year-old chess prodigy has now become only the third Indian female player to achieve this prestigious title, joining the elite company of Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli.
Having already fulfilled three grandmaster norms, Vaishali clinched the title after meeting the final requirement of reaching the desired number of rating points. Her accomplishment adds a new chapter to the rich legacy of Indian chess and positions her among the top echelons of the chess world.
Vaishali Rameshbabu, hailing from Tamil Nadu, is not only a trailblazer in her own right but also creates history as part of the first-ever grandmaster siblings pair in chess.
Her 18-year-old brother, Praggnanandhaa, is a chess sensation in his own regard. Together, they form a formidable force in the chess arena, symbolising the growing strength of Indian chess on the global stage.
The achievement drew praise from various quarters, including Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, who extended his congratulations to the sibling duo.
Vaishali's success adds to the impressive list of over 80 Indian chess players who have earned the grandmaster title, a list that includes legends like Vishwanathan Anand, Koneru Humpy, Dronavalli Harika, and Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa.
The journey to grandmaster status requires a combination of skill, strategic thinking, and consistent performance at the highest level. Vaishali's dedication and talent have now etched her name in the annals of Indian chess history, inspiring the next generation of players to strive for excellence on the global chess stage.
Her accomplishment further reinforces India's standing as a powerhouse in the world of chess, with a legacy that continues to evolve and reach new heights.
(With inputs from ANI)
