PM Narendra Modi hails D Gukesh as an embodiment of 'calmness and humility' after meeting chess world champion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi described D Gukesh as a confident young player who is an embodiment of “calmness and humility” after meeting the Indian chess sensation and the newly-crowned world champion in New Delhi on Saturday. PM Modi also lauded his determination and dedication, with the 18-year-old becoming the youngest world champion in the history of the sport after defeating China’s Ding Liren in the FIDE World Championship in Singapore earlier this month.

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“Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh!

I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video of his few years ago where he had said he would become the youngest world champion— a prediction that has now clearly come true thanks to his own efforts," PM Modi wrote in a thread on X.

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Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh!

I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video… pic.twitter.com/gkLfUXqHQp

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 28, 2024

The conversation between the Prime Minister and the chess world champion revolved around the power of yoga and meditation. Gukesh is known to enter a meditative state during a match, which was the case in the World Championship as well. Modi also hailed Gukesh’s parents for their role in fulfilling his dream of becoming a chess star.

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“Along with confidence, Gukesh embodies calmness and humility. Upon winning, he was composed, basking in his glory while fully understanding how to process this hard-earned victory. Our conversation today revolved around the transformative potential of yoga and meditation.”

“In the success of every athlete, their parents play a pivotal role. I complimented Gukesh’s parents for supporting him through thick and thin. Their dedication will inspire countless parents of young aspirants who dream of pursuing sports as a career.”

“I am also delighted to have received from Gukesh the original chessboard from the game he won. The chessboard, autographed by both him and Ding Liren, is a cherished memento," Modi added.

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Gukesh had received a hero’s welcome in his home town of Chennai after his triumph in Singapore, receiving a cash prize of Rs 5 crore from the Tamil Nadu State Government in addition to the cash prize of US$ 1.3 million (Rs 11.45 crore) that he had won in the FIDE World Championship.

Gukesh is currently on a break, having opted to skip the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships that got underway in New York City on Thursday, and will next be in action at the Tata Steel Chess tournament in Wijk aan Zee in Netherlands.