A chess prodigy from Kolkata, three-year-old Anish Sarkar, has recently made global headlines as the youngest player ever to earn a FIDE rating, at just 3 years, 8 months, and 19 days. This young talent set a new world record, eclipsing the previous record of five years, held by Tejas Tiwari. Anish earned his rating by competing against players significantly older and more experienced than him, showcasing an extraordinary aptitude for strategy and foresight unusual for someone his age.
Anish’s journey in chess began early, as he displayed an innate curiosity and aptitude for the game as a toddler. His debut at the West Bengal Under-9 Open tournament, where he scored 5.5 points out of 8, confirmed his potential. He went on to play in a simultaneous exhibition match against Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi, India’s top-ranked chess player, an event that further tested his skills. Following this, Anish entered the West Bengal Under-13 tournament, which allowed him to face five rated players, earning him a FIDE rating of 1555.
His rise also reflects India’s growing presence in the world chess scene, particularly among young talents. Anish is coached by Indian chess legend Dibyendu Barua, who has helped nurture his raw talent while balancing his chess progress with the needs of early childhood. This remarkable journey speaks to Anish’s dedication and his family’s support, setting him on a promising path among India’s next generation of chess stars.
