Warangal celebrates Arjun Erigaisi’s historic Chess achievement

Warangal celebrates Arjun Erigaisi, India's top chess player, with special event recognizing his achievements and inspiring young talents.

The city of Warangal hosted a special event to honour Arjun Erigaisi, the World No. 4 and India’s No. 1 chess player on Saturday. Erigaisi, the first Grand Master from Telangana, has gained widespread recognition for his exceptional talent in the game. He was named ‘Emerging Hero’ at Sportstar Focus Telangana Conclave held in Hyderabad in 2023.

The celebration, organised at Kaloji Kalakshetram in Hanumakonda by Chess Network in partnership with both local and international organizations, was attended by prominent dignitaries, chess enthusiasts and students. MP Kadiyam Kavya and Hanumakonda District Collector P. Pravinya presented Arjun with a professional chess board engraved with the Chess Network logo in recognition of his achievements.

During the event, Arjun’s parents Dr Srinivas Rao and Jyothi shared their journey of supporting his passion for chess, even in the face of early doubts. Collector P. Pravinya praised Arjun’s success, stating, “I hope Arjun’s accomplishments will inspire children to excel in their chosen fields.”

Chess Network team highlighted the organisation’s goal of introducing the joys and benefits of chess to young minds across rural, suburban and urban areas. As part of this initiative, Chess Network plans to distribute 15,000 chessboards to villages throughout Telangana.

The event also featured a Blitz game between Arjun and 12 young aspiring chess players, marking a memorable moment for the budding champions.

Velpula Sarayu, a promising young player on the path to becoming a Grand Master, was also honoured with a chessboard.