Nagpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis congratulated Indian chess Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh of Nagpur for her stupendous performance in the recently held 2025 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship in London. In the semi-final of the Rapid Championship Divya, representing Hexamind Chess Club, defeated World No 1 Hou Yifan of China.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Prime Minister Modi said that Divya Deshmukh’s success “inspires” the upcoming chess players. “Congratulations to Divya Deshmukh on defeating the World No 1, Hou Yifan in the 2nd leg of Blitz semi-final at the World Team Blitz Championships, London. Her success highlights her grit and determination. It also inspires many upcoming chess players. Best wishes for her future endeavours,” PM Modi posted on X.
Gold Rate
10 july 2025
Divya thanked PM Modi in the comments. “Thank you, Respected Sir. It is a great honour and encouragement for me to be recognised by the Prime Minister,” she replied. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh too congratulated the talented chess player. “Congratulations to @DivyaDeshmukh05 on her remarkable victory over World No 1 Hou Yifan in the Blitz semi-final at the World Team Blitz Championships. Her performance reflects exceptional talent, focus and resilience. Wishing her continued success in the world of chess,” Singh posted on X.
Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari also had a word of praise for Divya. “Heartfelt congratulations to @DivyaDeshmukh05 from Nagpur on her sensational victory over World No 1 Hou Yifan in the Blitz semi-finals at London 2025. Her exceptional skill, composure, and fearless play have created a historic moment in Indian chess. Wishing her continued success and many more achievements on the global stage. The nation is proud!,” stated Gadkari.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called it an extraordinary moment. “Congratulations to our very own Divya Deshmukh from Nagpur, Maharashtra! “What an extraordinary moment as she defeats World No 1 Hou Yifan in the Blitz semi-finals, London 2025. Her fearless moves, sharp focus, and unshakeable determination have not only secured a historic victory but also made every Indian — and every Maharashtrian — proud. This isn’t just a win on the board, it’s a statement to the world that young talent from India is ready to conquer global arenas. Wishing Divya many more glorious victories ahead”.
“Indian chess has found a new queen, and she hails from Nagpur!,” said Fadnavis. Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse said it is a moment to remember. “ Congratulations! @DivyaDeshmukh05 just reminded the world what quiet strength looks like. “Defeating World No 1 Hou Yifan in the 2nd leg of the Blitz semi-final at the World Team Blitz Championships in London, what a moment to remember! So proud of her grace, grit & game”.
MLC Sandip Joshi also lauded Divya’s achievement. In a post, Joshi stated, “Proud moment for the people of Nagpur. New queen of Indian chess – Divya Deshmukh. Nagpur’s daughter, now shining on the global track! This moment is not just a victory, So proud of Nagpur, Maharashtra and India! Divya, you just didn’t win the match, you gave new directions to the dreams of millions of youths! Hearty congratulations and many best wishes for the future.”
