Mumbai: The security official stationed outside the arrival terminal of Chennai International Airport repeatedly urged, "Step back, step back," on Monday morning. What began as a directive gradually transformed into a desperate appeal, yet the hundreds present were resolute in their determination to remain where they were.

Their gathering was to commemorate the conclusion of an 11-year wait—welcoming Gukesh Dommaraju, the newly crowned chess world champion.

This world title holds immense importance for Chennai. It was in this chess-enthusiastic city that their own five-time world champion, Viswanathan Anand, faced defeat in the 2013 World Championship Match against Magnus Carlsen. Since that time, India has longed to reclaim the title. That longing was fulfilled last Thursday when Gukesh triumphed over China’s Ding Liren in the World Championship Match held in Singapore, making him the youngest player ever to achieve this honour and only the second Indian to do so, following Anand.

The reception he received upon his return was a testament to the joy of this long-awaited victory.

As the crowd erupted in exuberant cheers, Gukesh emerged from the arrival gate, with journalists, fans, and security personnel all rushing forward to greet the 18-year-old who had departed Chennai as a challenger and returned as a champion.

In December of the previous year, Chennai stepped in at the last moment to host a tournament, providing Gukesh with a crucial opportunity to qualify for the Candidates event in Toronto. He seized this chance, winning the Chennai Masters, and subsequently the Candidates in April, securing his position as the challenger to the reigning champion, Ding.

Bungee Jump

Preparations for Gukesh’s return were already underway while the newly crowned champion was engaged in various activities in Singapore following his victory. Among these was the fulfilment of his promise to go bungee jumping if he emerged victorious.

A vehicle adorned with a design celebrating Gukesh’s world championship triumph, featuring a chessboard pattern of black and white squares on the roof, transported him into the city. The sides of the car proclaimed, “The new king in the kingdom of chess,” while the front displayed “18 @18,” indicating his age and his ranking among world champions.

At the arrival area, students clad in Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) tracksuits had put up posters to welcome him.

As the crowd grew larger, police set up barricades and ropes to facilitate the movement of other passengers who had arrived before Gukesh.

At last, the moment arrived. A significant group approached the exit, which included officials wearing lanyards and security personnel in uniforms.

In the centre of this group, Gukesh held the winner’s trophy and wore a gold medal around his neck. Maintaining his usual stoic demeanour, he navigated towards his assigned vehicle, though the exit proved to be challenging.

The extensive security measures were put to the test as the crowd surged forward to get closer to the world champion. Flower petals rained down as chants of “Gukesh, Gukesh” filled the air. Amid the commotion and requests for fans to step back, Gukesh was finally guided into his car, which then proceeded to his school, Velammal Vidyalaya.

Back at School

He took photographs with the teachers and other members of the school staff before being escorted to the auditorium. Previously, the boy had attended classes as a student. On Monday, a gathering was held for everyone to listen to his address.

"My aspiration has always been to become the best player in the world," Gukesh stated. "As a child, the World Championship represented a significant milestone towards achieving that dream. It is evident that there are numerous strong competitors, and I have much room for improvement."

Currently ranked fifth in the classical standings, Gukesh, the youngest world champion, remains both aware of and confident in his abilities. He recognizes that his career has a long trajectory ahead, providing ample opportunity for advancement.

"This is a significant accomplishment, especially at such a young age, yet there is still much to achieve," he remarked. "My aim is to continue enjoying chess and to pursue a lengthy career, with the hope of one day becoming the best player in the world."

In 2013, the year Anand lost the world title, Gukesh celebrated his first tournament victory, thrilled by the prize of a bicycle. Upon winning the Candidates, his school gifted him a luxury car. The world title is certain to bring even greater rewards.

For Gukesh, it is now time to redefine his objectives. Having attained the title of world champion, he aspires to dominate the realm of chess.

Read Also: Will Rain Play Spoilsport on Day 4 of the India vs Australia Test in Brisbane?