List of Indian Chess Grandmasters 2025, Check the List

India’s chess journey has reached a remarkable milestone. As of July 2025, the country has produced 88 Grandmasters (GMs) – a title awarded by FIDE, the world chess federation, to the highest level of players. This achievement reflects not only India’s growing strength in world chess but also the increasing popularity of the game across the nation.

A Journey of Growth, From 1st to 88th Edition

India’s rise in chess began with Viswanathan Anand in 1988, who became the country’s first Grandmaster. For many years, he stood alone as India’s only GM, inspiring countless youngsters. However, the pace picked up after the 2000s.

• 1988 – 1 GM (Viswanathan Award)
• 2010 – Around 20 GMs
• 2018 – Crossed 50 GMs
• 2025 – Reached 88 GMs

This rapid growth shows that India has become a true chess powerhouse, producing talent at a world-class level.

88th Indian Grand Master

The newest start on India’s GM list is Divya Deshmukh from Maharashtra. She became the 88th Indian GM and only the 4th Indian woman to achieve this feat. Divya made history by winning the 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup, securing the GM title without following the usual step-by-step norm process.

States Leading the Chess Revolution

While chess is played across the country, certain states have produced a large number of India’s GMs:

• Tamil Nadu: By far the leader, producing legends like Anand, Gukesh and Praggnanandha.
• Maharashtra: Home to big names like Praveen Thipsay, Vidit Gujrathi and Divya Deshmukh.
• West Bengal: Produced early pioneers like Dibyendu Barua and Surya Shekhar Ganguly.
• Andhra Pradesh: Known for Koneru Humpy and Pentala Harikrishna.
• Delhi: Emerging as a hub for young talent.

Tamil Nadu’s dominance is especially impressive, with multiple world-class players emerging every few years.

Notable Modern-Era Grandmasters

• D. Gukesh (Tamil Nadu): Youngest Indian to defeat former World Champion Magnus Carlsen.
• R. Praggnanandhaa (Tamil Nadu): World Cup finalist and a sensation in global chess.
• Arjun Erigaisi (Telangana): One of the fastest-growing players in world rankings.
• Nihal Sarin (Kerala): Known for his sharp tactical play.
• Raunak Sadhwani (Maharashtra): Rising rapidly in elite tournaments.

Women Breaking Barriers

• Koneru Humpy (Andhra Pradesh): India’s first female GM and former Women’s World Rapid Champion.
• Harika Dronavalli (Andhra Pradesh): Consistent top performer in women’s chess.
• R. Vaishali (Tamil Nadu): Among the top female players globally.
• Divya Deshmukh (Maharashtra): Latest star, winner of the 2025 Women’s World Cup.

Legendary Grandmasters Who Paved the Way

Before the current wave of young stars, India had a strong foundation led by legendary players:

• Vishwanathan Anand: Former World Champion, five-time world title winner.
• Pentala Harikrishna: A top-20 world player for many years.
• Krishnan Sasikiran: Olympiad gold medalist.
• Dibyendu Barua: Second Indian GM, pioneer from West Bengal.

India’s Role in Global Chess

Indian GMs are no longer just participants – they are title contenders. They regularly compete in the tournaments, often challenging and defeating the best in the world. Young Indian players are making deep runs in World Cups, Olympiads and Candidates tournaments.

The Future of Indian Chess

With more chess academics opening, improved coaching and greater financial support, India’s GM count is likely to grow rapidly. Experts believe India could reach 100 Grandmasters before 2027, cementing its place as one of the strongest chess nations in the world.