International Chess Day 2023: Grand Masters From Across The Globe

Chess, originally known as ‘chaturanga’, originated in India and spread to Persia, the Islamic countries, and eventually Europe. It has become a popular pastime and competitive activity worldwide.

Why do we celebrate International Chess Day?

International Chess Day is celebrated on July 20 each year to commemorate the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924.

The United Nations declared it as an official day on December 12, 2019. Chess, which originated in India, has become a popular and widely played game worldwide.

The day is essential because it promotes the educational benefits of chess. It helps improve cognitive abilities, logical reasoning, and strategic thinking in both children and adults.

Chess is a universal game that brings people together from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and languages.

It encourages camaraderie and sportsmanship, teaching valuable life lessons like patience, decision-making, and resilience.

Despite being competitive, chess fosters mutual respect and peaceful coexistence between opponents.

Chess Grand Masters Across The Globe

International Chess Day, celebrated on July 20 each year to commemorate the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924.

FIDE is the governing body of international chess and awards the prestigious title of Grandmaster (GM) to chess players.

The Grandmaster title is the highest honor a chess player can achieve and is equivalent to being a world champion.

Russia has the highest number of Grand Masters followed by Germany, Ukraine, USA, and India. India has seen a rapid increase in Grandmasters, with 82 players holding the prestigious title.

The first Indian to become a Grandmaster was Viswanathan Anand in 1988. The latest Indian Grandmaster is Vuppala Praneeth, who received the title in 2023.

Also Read:- India vs Bangladesh Women Cricket 2nd ODI Match At Dhaka

Countries With 50+ Grand Masters