Parimarjan Negi : From Historic Chess Glory to Major Academic Achievement

New Delhi | 

Parimarjan Negi is a name held in high regard in the world of Indian chess. Displaying extraordinary talent at a very young age, Negi made history by becoming a Grandmaster at just 13 years, 4 months, and 20 days, making him the second-youngest Grandmaster in chess history at the time.

Born on February 9, 1993, in New Delhi, Negi showed exceptional command over chess from an early age. His rise began in 2002 when he won the Asian Youth Chess Championship (Under-10) in Tehran. His journey towards the Grandmaster title accelerated in 2005–06 when he achieved his first GM norm at the Hastings International Chess Congress.

Negi secured his second GM norm at the Fourth Parsvnath International Open Tournament in Delhi, and completed his third and final norm in Satka, Russia. With this achievement, he became India’s youngest Grandmaster, breaking the previous record held by Pentala Harikrishna.

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A Stellar Chess Career

Negi continued to shine on the international stage:

• 2008: Won the Philadelphia International Open, remaining unbeaten

• 2009: Clinched the Politiken Cup in Copenhagen and the Malaysia Open

• 2010: Won the National Premier Chess Championship

• 2012: Crowned Asian Chess Champion

• 2012–2013: Won the Cappelle-la-Grande Open

• 2013: Secured his second Politiken Cup title

His consistency and dominance against elite competition firmly established him among India’s top chess players.

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Olympic Glory and Retirement

In 2014, Negi played on the top board for India at the Chess Olympiad in Tromsø, Norway, playing a crucial role in India winning the bronze medal.

Despite being at the peak of his career, Negi made the surprising decision to retire from professional chess in 2017, choosing to pursue academic and research interests.

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Academic Excellence After Chess

Following his retirement, Negi transitioned seamlessly into the world of education and research. After completing his schooling at Amity International School, New Delhi, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Stanford University in 2018.

According to reports, Negi went on to complete a PhD in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2024—a remarkable achievement that highlights his intellectual depth beyond the chessboard.

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Excellence Beyond the Board

From dominating international chess at a young age to excelling in one of the world’s most demanding academic fields, Parimarjan Negi’s journey reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence. His success in both sports and academics stands as an inspiration for young minds across India.

In recognition of his contributions to Indian chess, the Government of India honoured him with the Arjuna Award in 2010.

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