Arjun Erigaisi: India’s No. 1 and World's No 5 Chess Player

Arjun Erigaisi, the rising star in the world of chess, has been making waves with his remarkable achievements. Born on September 3, 2003, in Warangal, Telangana, Arjun has swiftly climbed the ranks to become India’s No. 1 Chess player. His journey from a chess enthusiast to a grandmaster is nothing short of inspiring.

Hailing from Warangal, Telangana, Arjun Erigaisi has shattered records and expectations. At the tender age of fourteen, he achieved the coveted title of grandmaster, becoming the first grandmaster from Telangana. His journey has been marked by resilience, dedication, and a hunger for success.

India’s obsession with cricket often overshadows other sports. The Indian Premier League (IPL) season captures the nation’s attention, leaving little room for recognition of chess prodigies like Arjun. But he persists, undeterred by the cricket frenzy. His dedication to the game is unwavering, and his achievements deserve applause beyond the chess community.

Chessbase India Tweeted

"Huge News: Arjun Erigaisi becomes the World no.5 with a live rating of 2762! The wonderboy from Warangal took down GM Aryan Chopra with the White pieces on the penultimate round of Menorca Chess Open 2024. This win led him to become the World no.5 in live ratings! While all eyes are on the Candidates, Arjun is putting up one stellar performance after another this year. After a strong finish at Grenke Open, Arjun has the sole lead with 7/8 points going into the final round of Menorca!"

The Grandmaster Journey

Arjun’s passion for chess ignited during playful matches with friends. What began as a fun activity soon transformed into a serious pursuit. His father recognized his talent and enrolled him in the Race Academy at Kothapet, SBI Colony, in 2015. Arjun’s dedication and hard work paid off when he achieved the title of Candidate Master by the FIDE list in 2016.

In 2018, Arjun made history by becoming the first grandmaster from Telangana at the tender age of fourteen. His journey continued with remarkable milestones:

• 2021: Arjun became the first Indian to qualify for the Goldmoney Asian Rapid of the Champions Chess Tour.

• 2022: He clinched victory at the Tata Steel Chess 2022 Challengers.

• 2022: Arjun emerged as the Indian National Champion by winning the MPL National Championship of India.

Arjun’s brilliance deserves acknowledgment beyond the 64 squares. Let’s celebrate his strategic brilliance, his ability to outwit opponents, and the quiet intensity of each move he makes. As India’s No. 1 chess player and the world’s No. 4 on the live rating list, Arjun Erigaisi is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring chess enthusiasts.

1. Arjun’s ascent has been nothing short of meteoric. As of the latest live rating list, he stands tall as India’s No. 1 chess player. His FIDE rating of 2762.0 places him at an impressive No. 5 in the world rankings. Imagine the weight of that achievement—competing with the best minds globally and holding your ground among the elite.

The Cricket Conundrum

Yet, Arjun faces a challenge familiar to many non-cricket athletes in India. The nation’s obsession with cricket, especially during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season, often overshadows achievements in other sports. While cricket stars bask in the limelight, chess prodigies like Arjun Erigaisi sometimes struggle for recognition.

Despite his remarkable accomplishments, Arjun faces a challenge that resonates with many talented chess players in India. The nation’s obsession with cricket, especially during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season, often overshadows other sports. Cricket stars dominate headlines, leaving little room for recognition of chess prodigies like Arjun.

While cricket enjoys a massive following, it’s essential to recognize and celebrate achievements in other sports. Arjun Erigaisi’s brilliance deserves attention beyond the 64 squares. Let’s appreciate the strategic battles he fights on the board, just as we cheer for our cricket heroes on the pitch.

Arjun Erigaisi’s journey is a testament to determination, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. As he continues to make strides in the world of chess, let’s ensure that his achievements receive the spotlight they truly deserve.

So, the next time you hear the roar of the cricket crowd, take a moment to appreciate the quiet intensity of a chess game—a game where Arjun Erigaisi is making India proud, move by move.