D Gukesh’s foray into chess began at the tender age of seven. His disciplined approach and dedication to the game saw him quickly rise through the ranks. Local chess tournaments became his training ground, where he displayed exceptional talent and a competitive spirit.Born on May 29, 2006, in Chennai, India, Gukesh grew up in a family of achievers. His father, Dr. Rajinikanth, is a respected ENT surgeon, while his mother, Dr. Padma, is a dedicated microbiologist. This nurturing environment laid a strong foundation for Gukesh’s pursuit of excellence.

The young chess wizard’s career took off with a series of early victories. In 2015, he claimed the title in the Asian School Chess Championships in the under-9 category. Three years later, in 2018, he secured the World Youth Chess Championship and achieved an extraordinary feat by winning five gold medals at the Asian Youth Chess Championships, all before his teenage years.Gukesh’s career reached a turning point in 2023. At just 17, he became the youngest player to cross a 2750 Elo rating in August, overtaking legendary chess icon Viswanathan Anand to become India’s top-rated player.According to various media reports, by 2024, Gukesh’s estimated net worth is Rs 8.26 crore ($1.5 million). A major portion of his earnings stems from his success in high-stakes tournaments, where he competes nationally and internationally. Strategic brand endorsements also contribute significantly to his wealth. In addition, India’s government often provides financial incentives to support elite chess players like Gukesh.