Indian chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa has never shied away from speaking his mind, whether it’s about his strategies on the board or about his off-board experiences. Recently, he opened up about the priceless and hilarious reaction from his father after defeating World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen for the very first time — a moment that became one of the most talked-about events in the chess community.
The Chennai-born Grandmaster, who has made waves globally with his fearless playing style, was only a teenager when he scored the monumental victory. While the world celebrated his triumph, his father’s response was so unexpected and amusing that it has now become a cherished anecdote in his career story.
The Memorable Win Against Carlsen
Praggnanandhaa’s first win against the Norwegian chess legend came during an online rapid tournament, a format that has seen rising popularity post-pandemic. Going up against Carlsen, who is known for his relentless gameplay and psychological edge, was no easy task.
In that match, Praggnanandhaa showcased a blend of precise calculation and tactical sharpness. With quick decision-making and aggressive opening choices, he was able to outmaneuver Carlsen and clinch a famous victory that stunned the chess world.
However, the story didn’t end there. What followed was an exchange with his father that left fans and fellow players in splits.
Father’s Unexpected Reaction
While most people expected his father to break into celebrations, showering him with praise, Praggnanandhaa revealed that the first words from his father were entirely different. Instead of congratulating him, his father simply asked, “Why did you take so long?” — referencing the extended middle-game battle before the victory.
Pragg recalled this moment with laughter, admitting that his father’s calm, even teasing tone was something that kept him grounded. “It was such a ‘dad’ thing to say. He wasn’t over the moon or jumping with excitement. He just wanted to know why I didn’t finish the game faster,” he said during a recent interaction.
Keeping Success in Perspective
Praggnanandhaa explained that his father’s reaction reflected the family’s approach to his chess career — keeping things balanced, no matter how big the achievement. His parents have always supported him but ensured that every win is seen as a step forward rather than the ultimate destination.
He also mentioned that his mother, who often travels with him for tournaments, reacted with more visible joy, but his father’s subtle humor was something he would always remember fondly.
Impact on Indian Chess
Praggnanandhaa’s win over Carlsen was more than just a personal milestone; it was a significant moment for Indian chess. It showcased that young Indian players are capable of not just competing with, but also defeating, the very best in the world.
Since then, the 19-year-old has gone on to deliver multiple strong performances in top-level tournaments, inspiring an entire generation of young chess aspirants in India.
Carlsen and the Rivalry That Followed
Interestingly, the match also marked the beginning of a growing rivalry between Carlsen and Praggnanandhaa. While Carlsen has since defeated Pragg on multiple occasions, the young Indian’s ability to push him into difficult positions repeatedly has been noted by grandmasters around the world.
Carlsen himself has acknowledged that Praggnanandhaa is one of the brightest young talents in chess today, calling him “fearless and creative” in his approach to the game.
Pragg’s Rising Global Popularity
In the years following his first win over Carlsen, Praggnanandhaa has gained international recognition. From being featured in global sports magazines to being invited to elite tournaments, his rise has been rapid yet steady.
Social media platforms have played a huge role in amplifying his achievements, with fans creating memes, commentary videos, and highlight reels of his most famous matches — including that iconic victory over Carlsen.
Chess as a Growing Spectator Sport in India
Praggnanandhaa’s success story has coincided with a larger chess boom in India. With multiple Grandmasters emerging in recent years — including D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and Nihal Sarin — the country is steadily becoming a chess powerhouse.
This rise in popularity has also been fueled by live streaming platforms, where online audiences follow matches with commentary from popular figures like IM Sagar Shah and streamer-turned-chess enthusiast Samay Raina.
Table: Praggnanandhaa’s Milestone Wins Against Elite Opponents
| Year | Opponent | Tournament | Format | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Magnus Carlsen | Airthings Masters (Online) | Rapid | Win |
| 2023 | Hikaru Nakamura | Chess.com Global Championship | Blitz | Win |
| 2024 | Fabiano Caruana | Grand Chess Tour | Rapid | Win |
| 2024 | Wesley So | FIDE World Cup | Classical | Win |
| 2025 | Anish Giri | Tata Steel Masters | Classical | Win |
Table: Key Attributes of Praggnanandhaa’s Playing Style
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Opening Repertoire | Flexible and creative, with deep preparation in multiple openings |
| Middle Game | Tactical sharpness, ability to create complex positions |
| Endgame Skills | Strong technical play, precise calculation |
| Mental Resilience | Calm under pressure, capable of comebacks |
| Adaptability | Switches style depending on opponent’s weaknesses |
The Road Ahead
With his career still in its early stages, Praggnanandhaa is poised for even greater achievements. His recent performances suggest that he is on track to challenge for the world title in the coming years.
His bond with his family, particularly the grounded approach of his father, continues to be a key pillar in his journey. For fans, the humorous “Why did you take so long?” remark will remain one of the most endearing tales from his rise to chess stardom.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and player interviews. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only.
