In a remarkable feat that has captured the chess world’s attention, Anish Sarkar from Kolkata, India has made history by becoming the youngest FIDE rated chess player at just three years old. His journey into the world of chess at such age is not only inspiring but also reflects a growing trend of young sensations taking the game by storm.
Born on January 26, 2021, Anish’s interest with chess began in an unusual way. As a parent, you must have seen the toddlers getting preoccupied with toys and cartoons, but Anish found his calling through chess videos online. His mother, who had no prior knowledge of the game, introduced him to various content on platforms like YouTube. It didn’t take long for Anish to develop a keen interest, that inspired his family to buy him a chessboard and pieces.
Anish’s competitive debut came in October 2023 during the West Bengal State Under-9 Open, where he not only participated but outshined, securing 5.5 out of 8 points and finishing 24th overall. This impressive performance included victories against two rated players, showcasing his raw talent and strategic understanding of the game.
His journey didn’t stop there. Shortly after, he participated in the Bengal State Under-13 Open, where he faced several rated opponents, that fulfilled the requirements necessary to earn his FIDE rating of 1555. This achievement surpassed the previous record set by Tejas Tiwari, who was rated at five years old.
Anish’s coach, Dibyendu Barua, a renowned chess player himself, expressed optimism about Anish’s potential, noting,
“He has a long way to go but his focus and dedication are astounding“.
Anish’s talent was further highlighted when he had the opportunity to play against Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi, currently India’s No. 1 player and world No. 4, during a simultaneous exhibition match. Such experiences are invaluable, providing young players with insight and motivation.
The chess scene in India is currently thriving, with numerous young players like R Praggnanandhaa and D Gukesh gaining international recognition through the Budapest chess Olympiad 2024. Anish’s emergence adds to this exciting era, inspiring many young enthusiasts to get more serious in chess. His training regimen is equally rigorous; under Barua’s supervision, he practices for seven to eight hours a day, indicating his commitment and passion for the game.
Nurturing the Next Generation
Anish Sarkar’s journey is a testament to the impact of early exposure and quality mentorship in chess. For parents looking to introduce their children to this enriching game, the New England Chess School offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored for various skill levels. Our certified coaches provide a engaging and supportive environment where young players can develop their skills, confidence, and life lessons through chess.
Whether your child is a beginner or looking to refine their skills, we offer online classes that accommodate to every level from the beginner’s tactics to advanced strategies. Join us in fostering the next generation of chess talent. Explore our programs and see how we can help your child on their chess journey at New England Chess School.
“Chess is a game of constant new beginnings”.
Magnus Carlsen