TN CM Vijay Honours Pragg, Plays Friendly Chess Match

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay met Indian chess star R. Praggnanandhaa and played a friendly game of chess with him following the grandmaster's historic victory at the Norway Chess 2026 tournament.

Praggnanandhaa recently became the first Indian player to win the prestigious Norway Chess title, earning praise from across the country. To celebrate the achievement, the Chief Minister invited the young grandmaster to the Secretariat in Chennai, where the two shared a light-hearted chess game.

During the meeting, Vijay congratulated Praggnanandhaa for bringing pride to Tamil Nadu and India through his remarkable performance on the international stage. The Chief Minister also presented a cash incentive of ₹50 lakh in recognition of the chess player's accomplishment.

The event highlighted Tamil Nadu's strong connection with chess and its continued support for talented athletes. Photos and videos of the meeting quickly gained attention on social media, with many praising the gesture and celebrating Praggnanandhaa's success.

Praggnanandhaa's Norway Chess triumph is being regarded as one of the biggest achievements of his career and a significant milestone for Indian chess.