Divya Deshmukh Makes India Proud as World Chess Champion — Maharashtra’s First Female Grandmaster Honored by CM Fadnavis

Mumbai : Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh has etched her name on the Women’s World Chess Championship, bringing immense pride to India and especially to Maharashtra, becoming the state’s first female Grandmaster to win a world title. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended heartfelt congratulations to Divya on behalf of all of Maharashtra, stating that “her achievement has inscribed Maharashtra’s name in golden letters on the international chess board.”

CM Fadnavis also congratulated Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, who finished as the runner-up in the tournament. He remarked that the chess world had its eyes fixed on the intense moves of both Indian players in the finals—an extraordinary and proud moment for Indian chess.

In his congratulatory message, Fadnavis noted:

• Divya has set a new Indian record by winning the title in only her second attempt at the Women’s World Championship.
• She became the first teenage Indian player to qualify for the Women’s Candidates Tournament.
• Divya is now India’s fourth female Grandmaster.
• She has represented India on the international stage 40 times, winning 35 medals—including 23 gold, 7 silver, and 5 bronze.

He emphasized that the final between the two Indian players was thrilling and historic, especially given their equally matched, skillful performances. The rise of Indian women in a game like chess is noteworthy, and this victory will inspire emerging chess players across India.

“Maharashtra takes immense pride in Divya’s victory, and this moment deserves to be written in golden letters,” said Fadnavis. He also praised the efforts of Divya’s coaches, mentors, and supportive family, expressing full confidence that she will shine in upcoming Candidates Tournaments as well.

“Best wishes to Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh for continued success,” concluded the Chief Minister.