Post by : Meena
Hassan
A remarkable feat in chess has been achieved by a young talent from India. Sarwagya Singh Kushwaha, born in 2022, now holds the title of the youngest officially rated chess player globally after securing a rapid chess rating of 1,572.
Despite being only three, Sarwagya has outperformed much older competitors, including those in their twenties and even some participating in tournaments against grandmasters. This milestone satisfies the FIDE rating criteria, which necessitates earning points against a minimum of five rated players in sanctioned events.
Originating from Madhya Pradesh, Sarwagya began his chess journey at around two-and-a-half years. His father, Siddharth Singh, remarked, “We observed his capacity to learn rapidly. Within just a week of starting, he could accurately identify all chess pieces.”
What distinguishes Sarwagya from his peers is his incredible patience, focus, and commitment. He dedicates four to five hours each day to practice, which includes an hour at a training facility. His coach, Nitin Chaurasiya, characterized him as a courageous and quick-witted player, noting that although early training often involved some tears, they soon made progress through rewards like candy for correct moves.
For comparison, the renowned former world champion Magnus Carlsen began chess at five, while Gukesh D, the world’s youngest grandmaster, started at seven. Sarwagya’s early triumph is not only promising for his future but also showcases the increasing recognition of Indian chess talents from Madhya Pradesh.
Experts view Sarwagya’s achievement not just as his own accomplishment, but as indicative of India's growing influence in the international chess arena. His passion and skill position him as a player to follow in the years ahead.
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