“I couldn’t believe it, and I cried for 10 minutes.”
J Padmakumari anxiously awaited news of her son D Gukesh‘s World Chess Championship match against Ding Liren in Singapore on Thursday, avoiding her phone and computer. Gukesh’s aunt brought the joyous news of his victory.
Padmakumari expressed her overwhelming joy before departing to celebrate with her son, India’s newest chess champion. The victory also prompted reflection on the family’s sacrifices for Gukesh’s career.
Gukesh gave the trophy to his mother, who was sitting behind him, and she shared an emotional moment with the trophy, kissing it as her son secured the title of youngest World Chess Champion.
Watch: Proud mother kisses son’s World Champion trophy as he gives it to her
Her husband, Rajnikanth, an ENT surgeon, set aside his career to support Gukesh’s travels, while Padmakumari, a microbiologist, became the family’s sole provider.
“It is a really happy moment, but it was also a time for us to remember all the sacrifices we made, especially Gukesh’s father,” said J Padmakumari, as reported by PTI.
The family’s journey was made possible by the support of extended family and friends.
“But all our family—grandparents, in-laws, sisters, friends…everyone came forward to help us on our journey. We are thankful to each one of them.”
Gukesh acknowledged his parents’ financial hardships and the sacrifices they made for his chess career.
“We weren’t a very well-off family, so they had to face a lot of financial struggles. But I didn’t realise it at that time. At some point in 2017 and 2018, we were running so low on money that my parents’ friends sponsored me.”
He highlighted the lifestyle changes his parents endured to enable him to participate in tournaments.
“My parents had to make many lifestyle changes just for me to play tournaments. They made the most sacrifices.”
Success in chess demands immense personal discipline, as it’s a demanding and solitary sport. Padmakumari emphasised Gukesh’s unwavering focus and hard work since childhood.
“Gukesh worked really hard during his childhood. We are extremely happy about this victory. He is a very disciplined child and sacrificed so much for chess.”
The family’s joy is palpable after Gukesh’s title win, a testament to his dedication and their sacrifices.
“We are so happy that all of it became a reality with this title win.”
Gukesh’s victory has captivated the nation, and all of India is eagerly awaiting a glimpse of their new chess hero.