Chess: R Praggnanandhaa Scripts History; Becomes First Indian to Win Norway Chess Title: LS Speaker Om Birla Greets

In chess, Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa has created history by becoming the first Indian to win the Norway Chess title in Oslo, with a final-round victory over Germany’s Vincent Keymer.

Praggnanandhaa, who began the day in third place, secured a crucial classical win worth three points to finish with 18 points and seal the title. The 20-year-old from Chennai achieved a feat that had eluded Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand and reigning world champion D. Gukesh since the tournament began in 2013.

Competing in Norway Chess for only the second time, Praggnanandhaa produced a strong finish, including two classical wins over world number one Magnus Carlsen during the event. American Grandmaster Wesley So, who led the standings going into the final round, finished second with 17 points after winning the Armageddon tie-break against Alireza Firouzja, who ended third with 15.5 points. D. Gukesh had a disappointing campaign, while Carlsen finished fourth with 13 points after losing to Praggnanandhaa in the final round.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Congratulates R. Praggnanandhaa On Winning Norway Chess 2026 Title

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has congratulated Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa on winning the Norway Chess 2026 title. In a social media post on Saturday, Mr Birla said, Praggnanandhaa’s exceptional talent, dedication and remarkable consistency continue to make the nation proud and reflect the growing strength of Indian chess on the global stage. The Lok Sabha Speaker extended his best wishes to Praggnanandhaa for many more achievements and continued success in the years ahead.