NEW DELHI: D Gukesh, the newly-crowned world chess champion, received a warm welcome at the airport on Monday as hundreds of enthusiastic supporters, Tamil Nadu government officials and national federation representatives gathered to greet him. The 18-year-old surpassed Russian legend Garry Kasparov's record by becoming the youngest world champion after defeating China's Ding Liren 7.5-6.5 in Singapore last week. Kasparov had set the previous record at age 22 in 1985.
Upon arrival, Gukesh expressed his gratitude for the support. "It's amazing. Your support gave me a lot of energy. It's a great feeling to win the world championship," he said whilst surrounded by eager media and fans.
"It means a lot to bring back trophy to India. Thank you for this reception. I hope we will have a great time in the next few days celebrating together," he added.
At Kamaraj airport, representatives from the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu and Velammal Vidayala school staff presented him with a bouquet and draped a shawl around him in the airport lounge. Gukesh began his chess journey at Velammal school.
Following his interaction with waiting supporters, he departed for home in a flower-decorated car bearing his photograph.
A media interaction is scheduled at Velammal School in Mogappair, after which he will celebrate with family and friends at home. His father, ENT surgeon Dr Rajinikanth, accompanied him throughout the competition, whilst his mother, microbiologist Padmavathi, joined them in Singapore after the final round.
A grand reception awaits him on Tuesday at Kalaivanar Arangam on Wallahjah Road, with a special parade planned to the venue. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin is expected to present him with a Rs five crore cheque during the function.
Stalin had previously announced on X: "To honour the monumental achievement of Gukesh, the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, I am delighted to announce a cash prize of 5 crore! His historic victory has brought immense pride and joy to the nation. May he continue to shine and achieve greater heights in the future."
Gukesh joins Viswanathan Anand as only the second Indian to win the world title. Anand, who mentored the teenager at his academy, played a crucial role in his development.
This achievement caps off an exceptional year for Gukesh, beginning with his victory at the Candidates Tournament in Toronto, making him the youngest challenger for the world title. He also led India to its first-ever gold medal at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest. His world championship victory earned him USD 1.3 million (approximately Rs 11.03 crore).
