Anish Sarkar - World’s Youngest FIDE-Rated Chess Player – GetBengal story
At an age when most toddlers are busy with cartoons, games, or colourful toys, Anish Sarkar from Kolkata is racking his brains on the chessboard, which led him to set a new global record on Friday.
Anish became the youngest player in the world to achieve a FIDE rating at the age of just three years, eight months and 19 days, making a mark as one of the most extraordinary talents India has ever seen.
Anish was born on January 26, 2021, in North Kolkata. His love for chess transitioned from casual play to formal training with proper guidance and encouragement. In October this year, Anish made his competitive debut at the West Bengal State Under-9 Open Tournament, a prestigious event for players across the region. He showed maturity far beyond his age, earning an impressive 5.5 points out of a possible 8. In this debut, Anish didn't just hold his own score against older competitors, he went on to defeat two FIDE-rated players.
On November 1, 2024, Anish achieved an official FIDE rating of 1555, setting a new world record as the youngest player ever to be FIDE-rated. Anish has established his place in chess history by breaking the record previously held by Tejas Tiwari, who achieved his rating at the age of five.
The International Chess Federation or World Chess Federation, also known by its French abbreviation FIDE (The Fédération Internationale des Échecs/FIDE), is a Swiss-based international organisation connects the various national chess federations and awards ratings based on performance against other rated players.
Anish took the challenge head-on by competing in the West Bengal State Under-13 Open. There, he played against significantly older players. His ability to compete and score points against these seasoned players met FIDE’s rating requirements, and Anish’s name was officially added to the FIDE rating list.
The chess community eagerly awaits his continued progress, as many believe he has the potential to rise to even greater heights.
Anish is not only making waves in India but also inspiring a new generation of young chess enthusiasts globally. His success serves as an inspiring example of what young minds are capable of achieving with focus, discipline, and the right support.
