New Delhi: Indian-origin chess prodigy Bodhana Sivanandan has emerged as England’s top female chess player, according to FIDE’s latest list. Just 11 years old, she now has a rating of 2366, ahead of four-time British women’s champion Lan Yao. Bodhana lives in north London and her journey is particularly remarkable considering she only started learning chess during the COVID-19 lockdown.Her success does not stop at the national level, Bodana has also entered the top 100 female chess players in the world for the first time and is currently ranked 72nd.
Her rise has been described as extraordinary, especially for a young schoolgirl who started playing chess after discovering an old chess set at home. Her father was said to have been planning on throwing it away, but this moment ended up changing her life.She has earned the title of Women’s International Master and continues to impress on the global stage. One of her finest moments was defeating former world champion Mariya Muzychuk at a major European championship in Greece.Her achievements have been praised by many, including the former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunakwho shared personal memories. “A huge congratulations to Bodhana Sivanandan for becoming England’s top female chess player at just 11 years old. We have played against each other in Downing Street Gardens. Let’s just say her success is no surprise,” he said.Officials from the British Chess Federation also praised her influence. Chief executive Richard Walsh said: “She blazed a trail not just for women and girls in chess, but for all chess players in England. She must be one of England’s greatest ever talents across all sports.”With her dedication and the support of her family, Bodhana has competed at the highest level and her journey has only just begun.
