Indian chess in 2025: Divya Deshmukh scripts history, D Gukesh’s form dips, R Praggnanandhaa reaches Candidates

It wasn't just D Gukesh's historic success which laid the platform for 2025; it was also Koneru Humpy, the reigning two-time Women's World Rapid Chess Champion.

Updated on: Dec 28, 2025, 06:13:03 IST

By Neelav Chakravarti

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2025 turned out to be the year, as India continued its rise to become a leading global superpower in chess. Last December, D Gukesh defeated Ding Liren to become the youngest-ever FIDE World Champion, bringing the title back to India after a long absence. It was the perfect moment as even five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand was present at the venue in Singapore as FIDE Deputy President.

D Gukesh and Divya Deshmukh shake hands. (X)

It wasn't just Gukesh's historic success which laid the platform for 2025; it was also Koneru Humpy, the reigning two-time Women's World Rapid Chess Champion.

Also Read: Wesley So slams Chess World Cup format, backs Nepomniachtchi's 'valid' Goa criticism; makes big D Gukesh prediction

Divya Deshmukh follows D Gukesh, Koneru Humpy's footsteps

Gukesh's victory saw his name memorised by every Indian, and then 2025 saw Divya Deshmukh enter the limelight. Only 19 years old in July, Deshmukh beat Koneru Humpy in an all-Indian final at the Women's Chess World Cup. The presence of two Indians as the sole competitors in the final underscored India's role as a global chess superpower, further solidifying its status.

The final went to tie-breaks, and Divya won 1.5-0.5 and was left in tears. Along with Humpy, she also qualified for the 2026 Candidates and became the first Indian to win the FIDE Women's World Cup. She also got her GM title as a result.

D Gukesh's tough 2025

On the other hand, Gukesh found it tough from the get-go in 2025. His status as reigning World Champion meant more focus from opponents. It was proved at the Tata Masters in Wijk Aan Zee as he lost to R Praggnanandhaa in the title-deciding tie-breaker round. Gukesh also fared poorly at the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour and didn't fare better at the FIDE Grand Swiss.

The 2025 Chess World Cup in Goa perfectly summed up his situation as he fell to a third-round exit. He will be hoping to find his form next year, as he will also be defending his title. Gukesh also had some positives, including his epic win against Magnus Carlsen at Norway Chess and the European Club Cup victory in October.

Candidates woes

Despite its rising status as a global superpower in chess, Indian fans were left disappointed this year as only Praggnanandhaa qualified for the 2026 Candidates in the men's section. Meanwhile, India's No. 1 Arjun Erigaisi failed to bag a berth. In the women's section, Divya, Humpy, and Vaishali Rameshbabu have secured spots.

Emerging GMs

At the U20 World Junior C'ship, India had another highlight as rising star Pranav Venkatesh capped off a stunning run to win the title. In terms of producing GMs, India has increased its pace. Recently, Srihari LR became the country's 86th GM. Ilamparthi AR, who is only 16, got the title to become the 90th GM. Soon, Raahul VS became the 91st GM.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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