• By Samannay Sen
  • Mon, 08 Jun 2026 07:13 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa, who recently etched his name into the record books by becoming the first Indian ever to clinch the prestigious Norway Chess title, continued his remarkable run in a special encounter with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay.

The symbolic encounter unfolded at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat on Monday, shortly after the young chess prodigy was honoured with a special incentive of Rs 50 lakh in recognition of his historic triumph at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament.

It was followed by a fascinating meeting between a young grandmaster who made India proud globally and the Chief Minister, eager to test his skills. Praggnanandhaa's brilliance was on full display as he swiftly secured checkmate, adding yet another memorable moment to a career already filled with notable accomplishments.

Despite the result, the Grandmaster later praised Vijay's passion and sporting spirit, describing the encounter as a memorable experience. They exchanged smiles after the friendly contest, sharing a lively moment.

ALSO READ: R Praggnanandhaa Creates History, Becomes First Indian to Win Norway Chess Title

"We played one game with the Chief Minister. We didn't expect this. It was a surprise and a happy moment. The cash incentive is also inspiring. I was not aware that the Chief Minister used to play chess. They asked us to bring the chessboard, and we played a game on his table. He played well and told me he used to play chess with his friends. I won the game, but he played it well," said Praggnanandhaa.

Praggnanandha’s Records and Figures

Praggnanandha’s recent triumph in the Norway Chess Championship on Friday, after defeating Germany’s Vincent Keymer in the final round, made him the first Indian to win the tournament. The Grandmaster notably finished ahead of elite stars including Magnus Carlsen, Wesley So and Alireza Firouzja. Praggnanandha’s title-winning fight picked up momentum in the final stages of the tournament with significant victories over Carlsen, Gukesh, and Keymar.

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Moreover, in 2025, he won major events such as the Tata Steel Chess Masters, Superbet Chess Classic Romani, and UzChess Cup, which earned him a rank of 4 in the World Rankings. Alongside Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, the Chennai star has made a name for himself in the Chess fraternity with more achievements to come in his career.


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