Tag: IndiaPride

Sports

Divya Deshmukh Becomes First Indian Woman to Enter FIDE World Cup Final

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Batumi, Georgia | July 24, 2025 — In a watershed moment for Indian chess, Divya Deshmukh, just 18 years old, has become the first Indian woman to reach the final of the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup.

Facing off against former World Champion Mariya Muzychuk in the semi-finals, Divya displayed fearless tactical aggression combined with razor-sharp positional play, defeating the Ukrainian grandmaster in a high-stakes thriller.

The Rise of a Young Champion

Divya’s World Cup journey has captured global attention, not only for her age but for the maturity and confidence she’s brought to every board. This latest victory under pressure cements her as one of the most promising young stars in the international chess arena.

“She played fearlessly, out-calculating a former World Champion under pressure — it’s a performance for the ages,” said a FIDE commentator post-match.

Final Showdown Awaits

Divya will now face the winner of the other semi-final between Koneru Humpy, India’s most decorated female chess player, and Lei Tingjie of China. The final is scheduled to take place on July 25 in Batumi.

If she wins, Divya will not only become a World Cup Champion but will also solidify her place among India’s chess greats — alongside Vishwanathan Anand, Humpy, and Harika Dronavalli.

Inspiring the Next Generation

This milestone is more than just personal glory — it’s a powerful symbol of India’s growing dominance in world chess, particularly in women’s sport.

Her rise from national prodigy to global finalist is inspiring a generation of young players, especially girls, to pursue the sport seriously.

Sports

Jiya Rai Makes History: Swims from Sri Lanka to India in 13 Hours

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Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu – In an awe-inspiring display of determination and endurance, 13-year-old Jiya Rai, a swimmer with autism, has successfully swum across the sea from Talaimannar in Sri Lanka to Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu, India, completing the 36-kilometre distance in just 13 hours.

Jiya’s accomplishment is not only a personal triumph but a historic world record that is capturing hearts and headlines across the globe. At such a young age, and with the added challenges of autism, Jiya has shown what relentless spirit and courage can achieve.

The journey, known for its difficult tidal conditions and strong currents, has defeated many experienced swimmers in the past. But Jiya remained undeterred. Supported by her parents and a committed coaching team, she pushed through the waters with unwavering focus and determination.

What makes her achievement all the more extraordinary is the symbolism of the route — swimming from one country to another is a rare feat even among elite adult swimmers.

Jiya Rai is no stranger to record-setting swims. In the past, she has completed other long-distance swimming events, always with the intent of spreading awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and proving that being differently-abled does not mean being less capable.

Jiya’s swim stands as a shining reminder of the power of belief, perseverance, and breaking barriers. She has now become a national inspiration, motivating youth and adults alike to challenge the impossible.