India has achieved an extraordinary milestone in chess. The country secured gold medals in both the men’s and women’s categories at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary. This momentous occasion marks the first time India has won gold in this prestigious tournament. It is a landmark achievement for Indian chess. The victory highlights the nation’s growing prominence in the sport. This success will be remembered in India’s sports history. The incredible triumph sparked celebrations across the country, with the joy resembling the enthusiasm usually reserved for major cricket victories.

Golden Moment for Indian Chess

The men’s team clinched their victory by defeating Slovenia in the final round, thanks to the brilliant performances of their star players. The names of D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Praggnanandhaa stood out, as these young talents played a crucial role in their team’s journey to the top. Their remarkable play in the intense 11th round was key to the team’s success. India’s win wasn’t just about one or two standout performances – it was a collective effort, with every player contributing to the historic triumph.

While the men’s team was securing their gold, the women’s team was delivering an equally powerful performance. Facing Azerbaijan, the Indian women dominated the match, winning 3.5-0.5 to claim their own gold medal. This victory was particularly impressive because of the overwhelming margin of their win. It showcased the strength and determination of the team. The celebrations that followed were filled with immense pride. Both teams held the Indian flag high on the podium. This moment symbolized their remarkable achievement.

A Celebration Like No Other

After their extraordinary victories, both the men’s and women’s teams gathered together to celebrate on the podium. In a fun and memorable moment, players from both teams paid homage to Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma by recreating his famous “robotic walk” celebration. This gesture occurred after the players proudly held up their trophies. D Gukesh and Tania Sachdev, in particular, took center stage as they mimicked the robotic walk from opposite ends of the podium, much to the delight of their teammates and fans. The lighthearted moment was a fitting way to cap off a hard-fought and well-deserved victory for both teams.

The celebrations went viral across social media, as fans compared the chess players’ victory to India’s notable cricket wins. The chess players’ performance and celebrations sparked a wave of joy and admiration across India, proving once again that chess holds a special place in the hearts of the nation.

A Historic First for Indian Chess

Before this unforgettable victory, India’s chess teams had already seen success at the Chess Olympiad, though not at this level. In the 2014 and 2022 editions of the Olympiad, India’s men’s team had won bronze medals, and the women’s team secured a bronze in the 2022 Olympiad, which was held in Chennai. However, the gold medals won in Budapest this year represent a new peak in India’s chess journey. This double gold win is a major step forward for Indian chess, bringing it to the forefront of the global chess stage.

The 2024 Chess Olympiad victory signifies a moment of pride for every chess enthusiast and the nation as a whole. The Indian chess community has grown in strength and depth over the years, with players emerging as strong competitors on the world stage. India’s rise in the global chess rankings has been marked by the rise of talented young players who have shown a great understanding of the game and a strong commitment to improving their skills.

This double gold win has set a new standard for Indian chess. It is proof that the sport is thriving in the country, with more and more young players inspired to take up chess and aim for the top. The achievement in Budapest has sent a message to the world that India is a chess powerhouse, capable of competing with and defeating the best teams globally.

Modi Celebrates India’s Chess Triumph

Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the significance of this historic achievement and praised the teams for their dedication and skill. The Prime Minister spoke at Nassau Coliseum in New York. He addressed the Indian diaspora and expressed his joy at the double gold victory. He stated, “Bharat is full of energy and dreams.” This comment referred to the remarkable accomplishments being made across various fields, including sports.

The victory at the Chess Olympiad is a proud moment for India. It serves as an inspiration for future generations of chess players. The hard work and strategy of both teams reflect the growing strength of chess in India. Team spirit played a crucial role in their success. This double gold achievement is a shining chapter in Indian chess history. The sport continues to evolve and captivate millions across the country.