Delhi's five-year-old chess player Arini Lahoti has created history. At such a young age, she has achieved FIDE ratings in all three formats: Classical, Rapid, and Blitz, setting a record as India's youngest chess star. Her achievement has set a new benchmark across the country.
FIDE Rating in Chess: Five-year-old Arini Lahoti from Delhi made a significant mark in history in August 2025. This young player has earned the distinction of becoming India's youngest chess player by securing FIDE ratings in all three formats: Classical, Rapid, and Blitz. Arini's current ratings are 1553 in Classical, 1550 in Rapid, and 1498 in Blitz. With this achievement, she has broken the previous record of Udhytri Bhattacharya, establishing a new milestone in the Indian chess circuit.
Becomes Youngest FIDE Rated Chess Player at Five Years Old
Delhi's five-year-old chess player Arini Lahoti has set a new precedent in the world of sports. At the mere age of five, she has achieved the honour of becoming India's youngest chess player by obtaining FIDE ratings in all three formats: Classical, Rapid, and Blitz. Her current ratings are 1553 in Classical, 1550 in Rapid, and 1498 in Blitz.
Arini's accomplishment makes her an inspiration for young talents nationwide. This record, achieved in August 2025, proved to be a record-breaker, surpassing the previous record held by Udhytri Bhattacharya.
Early Interest in Chess
Born on September 19, 2019, Arini displayed a deep interest in chess from a very young age. At the age of two, she watched World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen play on television and began embracing the game from then on. Arini's father, Surendra Lahoti, who is himself a chess player and a coach at Bluebells School International, provided her with initial guidance.
Surendra Lahoti believes that embracing the sport as a form of enjoyment at an early age is the key to success. He ensured that Arini maintained a balance between her studies, chess, and other sports.
When Arini's Chess Journey Began
At just five years old, Arini Lahoti has proven her talent by winning 11 trophies and numerous medals. She has performed exceptionally well in the Under-7, Under-9, and Under-11 categories. During the lockdown, Arini observed her father teaching online and started setting up the chess board herself.
This process further strengthened her game strategy and understanding. Her record has demonstrated that age is just a number, not a determinant of talent and dedication.
Goal to Become International Master and Grandmaster
According to Surendra Lahoti, Arini's goal is to become India's youngest International Master (IM) and Grandmaster (GM). The family and coaches plan for Arini to continuously improve her game and bring glory to the nation on the international stage.
