Newly crowned World Chess Champion, D Gukesh, shared a heartfelt message from his mother that has become his guiding principle. Gukesh’s historic victory against Ding Liren made him the youngest World Chess Champion ever.
His parents have played a pivotal role in his ascent to the pinnacle of chess.
#Unstoppable21 – Gukesh’s journey to becoming India’s Chess Grandmaster
The 18-year-old grandmaster revealed his mother, Padmakumari, expressed her joy at his recognition as a great chess player. However, she emphasised her greater desire to see him become an even better person.
Gukesh deeply values his mother’s message, striving to excel both as a chess player and as an individual.
“My mother still says: ‘I’ll be very happy to hear that you are a great chess player, but I would be happier to hear that you are an even greater person.’ That has been something that I really value a lot. I know I have a lot of things to work on, but I try my best to be a better chess player and a better person,” said Gukesh.
Gukesh’s parents, Rajnikanth and Padmakumari, made significant sacrifices to support their son’s dream. Rajnikanth, an ENT surgeon, relinquished his career to accompany Gukesh to tournaments. Padmakumari, a microbiologist, became the sole provider for the family.
Gukesh has acknowledged their sacrifices and the financial challenges they faced.
“We weren’t financially well-off, and my parents faced significant struggles,” Gukesh said after his victory. “At one point, in 2017 and 2018, we were so low on funds that my parents’ friends had to sponsor me. They even made lifestyle changes just so I could play in tournaments. Their sacrifices were immense,” said Gukesh.
Gukesh secured the championship title by defeating Liren in the final match with a score of 7.5-6.5.
