Vidit Gujrathi and Divya Deshmukh honored with Arjuna Award

Indian Chess Achieves National Recognition

Vidit Gujrathi and Divya Deshmukh, renowned Indian chess grandmasters, were honored with the Arjuna Award as part of the National Sports Awards 2025, announced in India on August 18, 2026. This prestigious honor recognizes their outstanding achievements in the sport.

Award Overview

The Arjuna Awards, the second-highest sporting honor in India, were bestowed upon 17 outstanding athletes across various disciplines. Notably, this year’s list includes two chess players, highlighting the growing recognition of chess in Indian sports.

Honorees’ Achievements

Vidit Gujrathi, a consistent performer in international chess, and Divya Deshmukh, the winner of the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, were selected for their exceptional contributions to Indian chess. Their determination and performances have made the nation proud.

Reaction from the Chess Community

The All India Chess Federation’s President, Nitin Narang, congratulated both players, acknowledging their hard work, the sacrifices of their parents, and the support of Indian chess fans.

Highlights

• Awardees: Vidit Gujrathi and Divya Deshmukh
• Total Awardees for 2025: 17 across all sports
• Significance for Chess: First time in recent years with two chess players recognized

Source

This report is based on information published by FIDE — International Chess Federation.

Official source: https://www.fide.com/vidit-gujrathi-and-divya-deshmukh-honored-with-arjuna-award/