At the tender age of three years, eight months, and 19 days, Anish Sarkar from Kolkata has etched his name in chess history as the youngest rated player ever. His remarkable journey began with a fascination for chess pieces at just three years old.
Anish’s debut in competitive chess came at the West Bengal state Under-9 Open, where he impressed with 5.5 points out of 8 and defeated two rated players. His skills were further tested at the West Bengal state Under-13 Open, where he faced older and more experienced opponents. Despite the challenge, he met the requirement of facing five rated players, earning him an initial FIDE rating of 1555.
Anish’s emergence coincides with an exciting era in Indian chess, marked by the rise of young prodigies like Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and D Gukesh. Their success has inspired a nationwide interest in nurturing young talents like Anish.
Born into a lower-middle-class family, Anish’s journey began when he was drawn to chess videos on YouTube. His parents, with no prior knowledge of chess, introduced him to the game, and he quickly developed a passion for it.
Anish’s focus and dedication are remarkable. He trains for seven to eight hours a day and is known for his unwavering concentration at the chessboard. His idol is none other than world champion Magnus Carlsen, and he enjoys watching GothamChess on YouTube.
Anish’s coach, Dibyendu Barua, sees potential in the young prodigy but emphasizes the long journey ahead. He compares Anish to Mitrabha Guha, who became a Grandmaster at 20 years old.
Anish’s mother, who prefers to remain anonymous, supports her son’s passion quietly. She believes in his abilities and wants him to enjoy the game without pressure.
As Anish continues his chess journey, he is expected to participate in the upcoming Tata Steel Kolkata Chess, where he may have the opportunity to meet his idol, Magnus Carlsen.
