The chess world is once again prompted as another Indian is after Magnus Carlsen, and this time, it’s the 9-year-old Aarit Kapil. This time, it’s not the reigning world champion Gukesh D, but India’s very own next door boy from Delhi, who has stunned the chess community with his fearless play against world number 1, Magnus Carlsen.
Who Is Aarit Kapil?
Aarit Kapil is a standard five student from Somerville School in Mayur Vihar, Delhi. He began playing chess just four years ago after being taught by his elder sister. His success has been nothing short of a miracle. Just last year, he became the youngest Indian ever to defeat a grandmaster in classical chess. And now, he’s come back with another outstanding achievement by holding Magnus Carlsen to a draw in the “Early Titled Tuesday” online tournament.
Where Did He Face Magnus Carlsen?
This online blitz tournament took place while Aarit was in Georgia, competing in the Under-10 World Championship. Despite being a small kid, with the pressure and busy schedule of juggling two major events, he displayed remarkable strategy.
In the game, he led Carlsen to a “completely lost position,” holding a rook against his two minor pieces in the endgame. Fans and experts are in disbelief as the young Indian prodigy fought for a victory against the GOAT of chess. However, with only a few seconds left on his clock, he could not turn his advantage into a win. Although the game ended in a draw, a result no less monumental for a player this age.
Aarit’s performance comes at a significant time in Indian chess as the prodigies are making headlines all over the world. Just a few weeks ago, Gukesh D defeated Magnus Carlsen in a classical game at the Norway Chess 2025, after which Carlsen was seen visibly frustrated. More Indian Grandmasters like Arjun Erigaisi have defeated Carlsen, and now the time has come for the 9-year-old Aarit Kapil.
This draw against Carlsen is just the beginning. He spends five to six hours daily on chess and is being coached by International Master Vishal Sareen. Despite his limited global access, his achievements shine bright in the land of Indian chess.
Also Read: Las Vegas Grand Slam 2025 Full Line-Up: Gukesh D Misses While Hans Niemann Ready To Battle
