Bodhana Sivanandan, a remarkable prodigy from north-west London, has taken the chess world by storm by becoming the youngest individual ever to earn the title of Woman International Master. At just ten years old, she not only reached this significant milestone but also accomplished a stunning feat by defeating a chess grandmaster, Peter Wells, during the recent British Chess Championship held in Liverpool.
Bodhana, who hails from Harrow, became a national sensation after her monumental win at the championship where she triumphed in the last round against the sixty-year-old grandmaster. The International Chess Federation celebrated her victory on social media, highlighting that she achieved this feat at the tender age of ten years, five months, and three days, setting a new record in the annals of chess history.
The prestigious title of Woman International Master is the second-highest title awarded specifically to female players, only surpassed by the title of Woman Grandmaster. Bodhana’s triumph adds to a growing list of her impressive accomplishments; she was previously recognized as the youngest female player to ever defeat a chess grandmaster.
The Journey of a Chess Prodigy
Bodhana’s journey into chess began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she was only five years old. While rummaging through toys and books given to her family, she stumbled upon a chessboard. Initially, she intended to use the pieces as toys, but her father, Siva, encouraged her to learn the game. From that moment on, Bodhana’s passion for chess flourished.
Her remarkable trajectory includes her representation of England on an international platform. In 2024, she was selected for the England Women’s Chess Team at the Chess Olympiad in Hungary, making her one of the youngest players to compete for her country in any sport.
A Supportive Family
Bodhana’s success comes as a surprise to her family, who have no prior experience in chess. Her father, Siva, who is an engineering graduate, expressed amazement at Bodhana’s extraordinary talent, stating, “Nobody at all in my family was proficient at chess before my daughter took up the game.” Their support, however, remains unwavering, as he encourages her to enjoy her achievements and pursue her dream of becoming a grandmaster.
Inspiring a Generation
The chess community has embraced Bodhana as a trailblazer for girls and women in the traditionally male-dominated world of chess. Renowned international chess master Malcolm Pein praised her achievements, noting her composure and modesty in contrast to her incredible talent. He believes that Bodhana could potentially rise to be the women’s world champion or even the overall world champion.
Bodhana enthuses about how chess not only entertains her but also enhances her analytical skills, saying, “Chess makes me feel good and helps with lots of other things like maths and how to calculate.” Her journey illustrates the profound impact that chess can have on cognitive development, especially in young minds.
As Bodhana Sivanandan continues her journey in the world of chess, she represents a beacon of hope and inspiration for young players everywhere, showing that with passion, dedication, and the right support, extraordinary achievements are possible at any age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Bodhana Sivanandan?
Bodhana Sivanandan is a 10-year-old chess prodigy from London who recently became the youngest woman international master.
What notable records has Bodhana achieved?
Bodhana is the youngest player to beat a chess grandmaster and has set a record for the youngest person to earn the title of Woman International Master.
When did Bodhana start playing chess?
Bodhana began playing chess during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown when she was just five years old.
What are Bodhana’s future aspirations?
Bodhana hopes to achieve her ultimate goal of becoming a grandmaster in chess.
How has Bodhana impacted women’s chess?
Bodhana is seen as a trailblazer for girls in chess, inspiring many young females to take up the game and excel in a traditionally male-dominated field.