Indian-origin teenagers Bodhana, Shreyas become British chess champions

Two Indian-origin teenagers, Bodhana Sivanandan and Shreyas Royal, have claimed historic victories at the 2026 British Chess Championships held in Coventry. Bodhana, aged 11, secured the women's championship title, becoming the youngest ever to hold this honor after defeating 14-year-old Irish player Trisha Kanyamarala in a tightly contested rapid-chess playoff. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Shreyas Royal triumphed in the open category, edging out seasoned English grandmasters to claim his first national title. The championships saw over 1,750 participants compete across multiple sections, with the open event boasting a record prize fund of £34,000. Both young players' achievements have sparked widespread admiration within the chess community. Bodhana's victory was particularly notable given her age and the high level of competition. Her win came after a series of impressive performances, including securing the UK Open Women’s Blitz title and sharing the British Women’s Rapid crown. Bodhana's journey into chess began during the early days of the global pandemic. A family friend returned to India with a chess set, which caught her interest. "I was interested in the pieces, so I started playing," she explained earlier this year. From that initial spark, she quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional skill and determination. Her success story has been highlighted by several prominent figures in the chess world, including Grandmaster Danny Gormally, who praised her as "unbelievable" and a "generational talent." Shreyas Royal's path to victory was equally remarkable. Having relocated to the United Kingdom with his family at the age of three, he has steadily climbed the ranks of competitive chess. At just 15 years old, he earned the prestigious title of grandmaster, making him the youngest in England's history. His recent win at the British Championships has further solidified his reputation as one of the country's most promising young talents. Former Home Secretary Sajid Javid acknowledged Royal's accomplishments, recalling his role in facilitating the family's continued stay in the UK. "In 2018, as Home Secretary, I took a decision to allow Shreyas and his family to remain in the UK. Wonderful to see his extraordinary talent flourish. Britain is proud of you, Shreyas," Javid stated. Both Bodhana and Shreyas represent a new wave of young chess prodigies emerging in the UK. Their successes highlight the growing influence of international players within British chess circles. The 2026 championships marked a significant milestone for both individuals, showcasing their abilities on a national stage and setting them apart as future stars of the game. As they continue their respective careers, expectations are high for both young champions. Bodhana's upcoming challenges will likely involve maintaining her focus and continuing to develop her skills amidst increasing pressure and recognition. For Shreyas, the victory serves as a springboard toward greater opportunities in international competitions. Their stories underscore the potential for young players to achieve greatness through dedication, support, and a passion for the game.