A Champion’s Victory and a Mother’s Dedication
Praggnanandhaa’s triumph at the Tata Steel Chess Masters 2025 is not just a story of talent and hard work—it is also a story of unwavering parental dedication. As an arbiter, I have witnessed firsthand the immense sacrifices parents make to support their children's chess dreams. I have seen parents take leaves from work, travel long distances, and sit for hours outside tournament halls, anxiously waiting for their children’s games to end. Some have even left their jobs entirely, prioritizing their child’s chess career over their own professional aspirations. It’s a level of commitment that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in shaping young champions. Praggnanandhaa’s journey is a testament to this sacrifice. His mother, Nagalakshmi, has been by his side through every tournament, ensuring that he had the right environment to focus on chess. From managing schedules to handling the pressure of competitive sports, she, like many other chess parents, has played an indispen...
