Bhubaneswar: India has emerged as one of the world’s major chess powers, boasting of five-time World champion V Anand, youngest Candidates winner and World champion D Gukesh, titles in both Open and Women’s events at the 2024 Chess Olympiad.
Odisha girl Elena Mishra achieved another significant milestone, becoming the youngest female player to hold an official FIDE rating at the age of 4 years, 6 months and 16 days.
According to the FIDE’s September list, Elena has a Blitz rating of 1432.
She is currently the only female player born in 2022 or later to hold an official FIDE rating in any format.
She achieved the feat at last month’s Odisha State Blitz FIDE Rating Open Chess Championship 2026, held at Mother’s Public School in Bhubaneswar.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi hailed Elena for creating history.
“Heartiest congratulations to 4-year-old Elena Mishra of Odisha on creating history as the youngest female player to hold an official FIDE rating. At an age when most children are taking their first steps into learning, Elena has already made her mark on the world of chess. Her achievement is a proud reflection of exceptional talent, dedication and determination,” Majhi wrote on X.
“May Elena’s remarkable journey inspire many more young minds across Odisha to dream big, pursue their passion and achieve excellence. My best wishes to Elena and her family for many more milestones ahead,” the CM added.
