Vidit Gujrathi Wins Arjuna Award

Vidit Santosh Gujrathi, a Nashik-born chess Grandmaster, has been selected for the prestigious Arjuna Award for his outstanding contribution to sports. This award is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game of chess.

Vidit has been associated with chess since the age of six and has achieved numerous milestones throughout his career. In 2013, he became India's 30th young Grandmaster, and after 13 years, he has now been honoured with the Arjuna Award.

One of his earliest achievements was winning the runner-up title at the 2006 Asian Youth Chess Championship, where he also earned the FIDE Master title. At the age of 14, Vidit won the World Youth Chess Championship, putting Nashik firmly on the global chess map. He was the first Indian to achieve this feat.

Vidit's career has been marked by numerous achievements, including earning the Grandmaster title in 2013 and crossing the 2,700 Elo rating mark in 2017, becoming India's fourth Super Grandmaster.

The announcement of the Arjuna Award brought immense joy to Nashik's sporting fraternity. Several well-wishers visited Vidit's residence, congratulated his parents, and extended their best wishes for his future journey.

Reacting to the announcement by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Vidit said he was delighted to receive the prestigious honour. Although his determination and hard work had helped him earn several accolades, he credited his parents for constantly inspiring and motivating him throughout his journey.

Vidit is one of two chess players from Maharashtra to receive the Arjuna Award, the other being Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh. This recognition is a testament to the growing popularity of chess in the state and the country as a whole.

The Arjuna Award is a significant milestone in Vidit's career, and it is expected to inspire young chess players from Maharashtra and across the country. With this award, Vidit has cemented his position as one of India's top chess players, and his achievements will continue to be an inspiration to many.

In conclusion, Vidit Gujrathi's selection for the Arjuna Award is a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contribution to the game of chess. His achievements have put Nashik and Maharashtra on the global chess map, and his dedication to the sport will continue to inspire young players for years to come.