Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay honored India’s chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa with a cash award of ₹50 lakh in recognition of his historic triumph at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament. The felicitation ceremony, held in Chennai, celebrated Praggnanandhaa’s achievement as the first Indian to win the prestigious global event, marking a new milestone in the country’s chess legacy.
During the event, CM Vijay praised Praggnanandhaa’s dedication, discipline, and brilliance on the international stage. He emphasized that the young grandmaster’s victory was not just a personal accomplishment but a moment of pride for Tamil Nadu and India. The award symbolizes the state’s commitment to encouraging sporting excellence and nurturing talent across disciplines.
Adding a personal touch to the ceremony, CM Vijay sat down for a friendly chess game with Praggnanandhaa. The match, though symbolic, highlighted the Chief Minister’s admiration for the sport and his respect for the young champion. Spectators were delighted to witness the exchange, which showcased the camaraderie between a political leader and a sporting icon.
Praggnanandhaa expressed gratitude to the Tamil Nadu government for its support, noting that such recognition motivates athletes to strive harder. He also acknowledged the role of his family, coaches, and mentors in shaping his journey from a promising youngster to a global champion.
The felicitation comes at a time when Tamil Nadu continues to strengthen its reputation as the chess capital of India. With legends like Viswanathan Anand inspiring generations, Praggnanandhaa’s victory further cements the state’s dominance in the sport. The government’s proactive encouragement of chess culture is expected to inspire more youngsters to take up the game.
This celebration of Praggnanandhaa’s success reflects a broader narrative of India’s rising influence in global chess. As he continues to scale new heights, the support from leade
