Who is Harikrishnan A Ra? India Gets Its 87th Chess Grandmaster

India has a new name in its growing list of chess champions. Harikrishnan A Ra, a 23-year-old from Chennai, has officially become the 87th Grandmaster (GM) of India. He secured his third and final GM norm on July 11, 2025, at the La Plagne International Chess Festival in France.

A Journey Marked by Patience and Passion

Harikrishnan’s path to Grandmaster wasn’t quick or easy. He became an International Master (IM) seven years ago but had to wait patiently and work tirelessly for his GM title.

“Feel very happy. It’s been seven years. I agree there was a huge delay to become a GM… it was really a struggle,” Harikrishnan told The Hindu from France after the final round.

His moment came when he drew his final game against fellow Indian player P. Iniyan to finish fourth in the tournament, earning the final GM norm he needed.

Clutch Performance Under Pressure

Going into the final two rounds in La Plagne, Harikrishnan knew exactly what was needed — 1.5 points. He pulled off a crucial win against French Grandmaster Jules Moussard in round eight and followed it with a draw in round nine to meet the requirement.

“There was pressure and I am glad I did it,” he said, summing up the mental weight he carried into the last two games.

A Steady Climb Through Tournaments

Harikrishnan got his first GM norm at the Biel International Chess Festival in 2023 in Switzerland. His second norm came in June 2025 at the Lince Andujar Chess Open in Spain. The third, and final, arrived this July in France.

Plans Beyond Chess

Though he has achieved the highest official title in chess, Harikrishnan is not stopping there. His next goals include:

• Reaching an Elo rating of 2600

• Pursuing higher education in the USA

• He already holds an M.Com degree from SRM University

• He plans to pursue an MBA abroad

India’s Chess Rise Continues

With Harikrishnan’s success, India now has 87 Grandmasters, reflecting the growing popularity and strength of chess in the country. This follows recent inspiring performances by players like Vantika Agrawal, who recently defeated a former world champion at the Chess World Cup 2025.