11-year-old Indian-origin Bodhana Sivanandan becomes England No. 1

NEW DELHI: Indian-origin chess talent Bodhana Sivanandan has become England’s top-rated female player, according to the latest list by FIDE. At just 11, she now holds a rating of 2366 and has moved ahead of four-time British women’s champion Lan Yao. Based in North London, Bodhana’s journey is especially remarkable given she only picked up chess during the COVID-19 lockdown.Her success didn’t stop at the national level, Bodhana has also entered the world’s top 100 women players for the first time, currently ranked 72nd. Her rise has been described as extraordinary, especially for a young schoolgirl who began playing after discovering an old chess set at home. The story goes that her father was about to throw it away, but that moment ended up changing her life.She has already achieved the title of Woman International Master and continues to impress on the global stage. One of her standout moments came when she defeated former world champion Mariya Muzychuk at a major European tournament in Greece.Her achievement has drawn praise from many, including former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who shared a personal memory. "Huge congratulations to Bodhana Sivanandan on becoming England's top female chess player at just 11 years old. We once played each other in the Downing Street garden. Let's just say her success has not come as a shock," he said.Officials from the English Chess Federation also praised her impact. "She is blazing a trail not just for women and girls in the game, but for all chess players in England. Across all sports, she must be one of the most prodigious talents England has ever produced," said CEO Richard Walsh. With her dedication and family support, Bodhana is already competing at the highest level, and her journey is just beginning.