Nagpur witnessed a festive atmosphere today as the city welcomed its pride, Divya Deshmukh, who recently became the FIDE Women’s World Chess Cup 2025 Champion in Batumi, Georgia. The young chess prodigy received a grand, celebratory welcome with flower showers, band performances, and cheering crowds lining the streets.
The celebration began at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, where Divya arrived to an overwhelming reception. Maharashtra Chess Association President and MLA Parinay Fuke, senior leader Girish Vyas, Divya’s father Dr. Jitendra Deshmukh, mother, grandmother Dr. Kamal Deshmukh, other family members, several chess players, and hundreds of citizens gathered to greet her. The airport echoed with chants, applause, and the beats of traditional bands as the city honored its “Chess Queen.”
From the airport, a grand felicitation rally moved towards the heart of the city, with people showering flowers and waving the tricolor along the route. Various social and sports organizations greeted Divya, celebrating her historic achievement.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Jitendra Deshmukh, Divya’s father, expressed his pride, saying, “Divya’s discipline and relentless hard work from such a young age have brought her to this moment. This is a matter of pride not just for our family but for the entire nation.” Her grandmother, Dr. Kamal Deshmukh, said this victory was an emotional and proud moment for the family.
Parinay Fuke, President of Maharashtra Chess Association, said, “Divya has illuminated the name of Nagpur, Maharashtra, and India on the global chess stage. We will continue to support her to achieve even greater success internationally.”
The streets of Nagpur were adorned with banners, posters, and hoardings congratulating Divya, while young chess players participated in the rally, calling her an inspiration for the next generation. The grand reception turned into a citywide celebration of her remarkable world championship triumph.
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