Anuj Shrivatri Becomes India’s 100th Chess Grandmaster – His Inspiring Journey
India has reached an important milestone in international chess. Anuj Shrivatri has become the country’s 100th Grandmaster after winning the 7th ASEAN Plus Individual Open Chess Championship in the Philippines.
The achievement was reported on November 9, 2026, and marks another significant moment in the growth of Indian chess.
Anuj also became the first Grandmaster from Madhya Pradesh.
How Did Anuj Shrivatri Achieve the Grandmaster Title?
Anuj secured the required Grandmaster milestone through his performance in the ASEAN Plus Individual Open Chess Championship.
His achievement adds another name to India’s growing list of internationally recognised chess players.
India’s first Grandmaster was Viswanathan Anand, who received the title in 1988.
From Software Engineer to Professional Chess Player
One of the most interesting aspects of Anuj’s journey is his educational and professional background.
He completed a BTech degree specialising in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Lovely Professional University.
He also worked as a software engineer for a German company.
However, he eventually chose to focus on professional chess rather than continue his software engineering career.
His decision reflected the amount of time and dedication required to compete at the highest levels of chess.
Why Is This Achievement Important for Indian Chess?
Reaching 100 Grandmasters is an important milestone for India’s chess ecosystem.
It highlights the contribution of players, coaches, families, academies and tournament organisers.
The growth of Indian chess also creates opportunities for younger players to pursue the sport professionally.
What Can Young Chess Players Learn?
Anuj’s journey highlights several important lessons:
- Consistent practice matters.
- Strong coaching can support development.
- Competitive experience is essential.
- Long-term goals require patience.
- Balancing education and professional interests requires careful planning.
Conclusion
Anuj Shrivatri’s achievement is an important moment for Indian chess. His journey from engineering studies and software employment to becoming the country’s 100th Grandmaster offers an inspiring example of dedication and commitment.
