Divya Deshmukh's Historic Rise Shines Amid Gukesh's Turbulent Year in Indian Chess

• Teenager Divya Deshmukh won the Women's Chess World Cup, becoming the first Indian woman to do so.
• Divya secured the Grandmaster title and qualified for the 2026 Candidates tournament with her victory.
• World Champion D Gukesh faced a turbulent year with setbacks despite a strong start and a famous win against Magnus Carlsen.
• India's Grandmaster count reached 91, with new GMs like LR Srihari and Divya Deshmukh emerging.
• Prodigies like Sarwagya Singh Kushwaha highlight India's bright chess future, becoming the youngest FIDE-rated player.

Why It Matters: Divya Deshmukh's historic triumph contrasts with D Gukesh's challenging year, showcasing India's evolving chess landscape.