NDTV Exclusive: Behind D Gukesh's Rise, A "Risky Decision Opposed By Family'

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh became the youngest challenger to the world title following his triumph at the prestigious Candidates Chess Tournament in Toronto earlier this week. The 17-year-old is the first Indian after the great Viswanathan Anand to win the Candidates Tournament. Speaking to NDTV, Gukesh's father, Dr Rajinikanth said his decision to quit medicine practice has finally paid off. Rajnikanth, who is a surgeon, had quit his practice to help his son achieve his dreams.

"Initially it was a risky decision and the move was opposed by my family. But, in order to achieve something, we have to make such decisions. Looking back, i think it was the right decision. It could've been seen as a double-edged decision but luckily it helped us," Rajnikanth told NDTV at Chennai airport on Wednesday night.

Recalling the moment of the decisive tie, Rajnikanth revealed that Gukesh had shifted his focus towards the tiebreaks as nobody was sure about the result due to the delay in broadcast.

"It was a tense moment as the game was fluctuating. We were not sure about the result and felt that he should better prepare for the tiebreaks next day. They wanted to have a walk and suddenly the organiser told me that the match was over. There was 15-min delay in broadcast so we weren't aware of the situation," he added.

Lastly, Rajnikanth credited the legendary Viswanathan Anand for inspiring young chess players in Tamil Nadu.

On Wednesday night, Gukesh received a rousing reception from fans at the Chennai airport upon his return from Toronto.

Hundreds of students from the Velammal Vidyalaya, the school where Gukesh studies, lined up at the airport at least one hour before his flight landed to greet the Candidates Chess Tournament winner.

"I feel very happy for this homecoming, this is a special achievement. I was in a good space since the beginning of the tournament, I had full confidence that I will emerge top in this tournament and luck was on my side as well," Gukesh told the media at the airport.

"It's good to see so many people enjoy chess...I thank the Tamil Nadu government. I thank my Appa, Amma, coach, friends, family, sponsor and my school for being alongside me and playing an amazing role in helping me win this tournament," he added.

(With PTI Inputs)