 |
|
Anish Sarkar, a three-year-old boy from Kolkata, has etched his name in the annals of chess history by becoming the youngest rated chess player in the world. This remarkable feat was achieved on Friday, October 27, 2023, when Anish secured an initial FIDE rating of 1555. His journey to this historic milestone is a testament to his innate talent, unwavering focus, and the unwavering support of his family and coach.
Born on January 26, 2021, Anish's fascination with chess began at a tender age, a stark contrast to his peers who were engrossed in cartoons or playing with toys. His interest piqued while watching chess videos on YouTube, prompting his parents to introduce him to the game. Anish quickly displayed an affinity for the complex strategies and tactics of chess, demonstrating an aptitude that surprised even experienced players.
His competitive debut took place in October 2023 at the West Bengal state Under-9 Open, where he showcased his potential by securing 5.5 out of 8 points. Notably, he defeated two rated players, Arav Chatterjee and Ahilaan Baishya, solidifying his talent and proving his ability to compete against older, more experienced players. This impressive performance set the stage for his historic achievement.
Anish's journey was not without its challenges. He participated in the West Bengal state Under-13 Open, where he faced even older and more seasoned opponents. However, his perseverance paid off as he met the requirement of facing five rated players, ultimately earning him the coveted FIDE rating. His accomplishment surpassed the previous record held by Tejas Tiwari, who achieved a FIDE rating at the age of five.
Anish's emergence comes at a time when India is experiencing a golden era in chess, witnessing the rise of young talents like Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and D Gukesh, who have made their mark on the international stage. Their achievements have not only placed India on the global chess map but also ignited a nationwide interest in nurturing young talents like Anish.
The support system around Anish is instrumental in his development. His coach, Dibyendu Barua, a renowned chess player himself, has been a guiding force in Anish's journey. Barua describes Anish as a potential star, comparing him to Mitrabha Guha, another Indian chess prodigy who achieved Grandmaster status at the age of 20. While recognizing Anish's talent, Barua emphasizes the long road ahead and the dedication required to achieve success.
Despite his young age, Anish possesses an exceptional focus. He trains for seven to eight hours daily and is known to immerse himself in the game, often staying glued to the chessboard for hours on end. His dedication and unwavering focus are key components of his success and a testament to his natural talent. Anish's dedication and talent have drawn comparisons to legendary chess players like Magnus Carlsen, the current world champion, who serves as a role model and source of inspiration for the young prodigy.
Anish's family, although from a humble background, provides unwavering support. His mother, who prefers to remain anonymous for now, has made significant sacrifices to nurture her son's talent. She has chosen to be a housewife, dedicating her time fully to supporting Anish's pursuit of chess excellence. The family emphasizes the importance of letting Anish enjoy the journey, avoiding pressure and allowing him to explore his passion.
Anish's story is an inspiration, showcasing the potential of young talents and the power of support, dedication, and hard work. His journey is a testament to the fact that age is just a number and that true passion can overcome any obstacle. As Anish continues to hone his skills under the guidance of his coach and the support of his family, the world awaits to see what this young prodigy will achieve in the world of chess.
Source: Kolkata’s Anish becomes youngest rated chess prodigy at 3 years