This distinction is remarkable considering the competitive nature of international chess rankings and the concentration required to perform at such a high level at a very young age. His achievement signals the continued rise of Tamil Nadu as a powerhouse of Indian chess. Joining him was nine-year-old R. Aaranya, an Asian youth champion whose success has already brought pride to the State. Aaranya’s achievements reaffirm how Tamil Nadu continues to produce world-class chess talent, following the legacy of champions who have inspired a new generation. Chess infrastructure, coaching academies and the widespread popularity of the game in the State have created fertile ground for youngsters like Amudhan and Aaranya to flourish. The event gained further prestige through the presence of several distinguished personalities from Indian sport. Among them were Chennai Super Kings Whole-time Director Rupa Gurunath, CEO K.S. Viswanathan, India Under-19 World Cup-winning captain and CSK batter Ayush Mhatre, Olympic gold medal-winning hockey captain V. Baskaran, and table tennis legend Sharath Kamal. Their attendance symbolised the unity of different sporting disciplines and the collective responsibility to support the next generation. Also present were veteran volleyball player M. Ukkrapandian, former India Under-19 cricket captain M. Senthilnathan, former Tamil Nadu cricketer S. Sharath, who currently serves as chairman of the BCCI junior selection committee, and India footballer R. Sandhiya.
Senior office-bearers of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, including president T.J. Srinivasa Raj, secretary U. Bhagwandas Rao and Dr. R.N. Baba, were also in attendance. The presence of such an accomplished gathering made the occasion deeply meaningful for the young awardees, who had the opportunity to interact with icons they may have only read about or watched from afar. Speaking at the event, Rupa Gurunath praised the Tamil Nadu Sports Journalists’ Association for sustaining an initiative that genuinely changes lives. She reiterated Chennai Super Kings’ commitment to continue supporting young athletes and carrying forward the vision of her father, N. Srinivasan, whose influence on Indian sport has extended beyond cricket administration. Her remarks emphasised that true sporting development requires support across disciplines, not just in commercially dominant sports. She noted that the scholarship should not be seen as a destination, but as a sign that the recipients are moving in the right direction. That message resonated strongly with everyone present. Recognition at a young age can sometimes create pressure, but it can also become motivation when approached with humility. Gurunath’s words encouraged the athletes to view the award as a beginning rather than an end.
K.S. Viswanathan echoed the same sentiment, stating that Chennai Super Kings has always believed in contributing to causes that benefit all sports. Though globally recognised as one of the most successful franchises in cricket, CSK’s participation in such initiatives reveals another dimension of the organisation. By lending credibility, financial support and visibility to multi-sport programmes, the franchise helps bridge the gap between elite sports branding and grassroots development. One of the most inspiring speakers of the day was Ayush Mhatre, who recently led India to the Under-19 World Cup title and now represents Chennai Super Kings. Still close in age to many of the recipients, Mhatre’s journey from young aspirant to national champion made his message especially relatable. He spoke about beginning his own cricket journey at a young age and understanding how much motivation a scholarship like this can provide. His presence reminded the young athletes that dreams can become reality with discipline and perseverance.
The M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk — home of Chennai Super Kings
Olympic gold medal-winning hockey captain V. Baskaran brought passion and perspective to the ceremony. A legend who led India to hockey glory, Baskaran praised the organisers for selecting deserving champions but also challenged them to think bigger.
He urged that the initiative be expanded in scale and impact so that more athletes across Tamil Nadu can benefit. His comments reflected a long-standing truth in Indian sport: talent is abundant, but opportunity often remains limited. Expanding scholarship programmes can be one of the most effective ways to address that imbalance. Table tennis icon Sharath Kamal delivered one of the most heartfelt reflections of the day. A multiple-time Commonwealth Games champion and one of India’s greatest paddlers, he spoke candidly about wishing such support had existed during his own early years. His statement highlighted how sports ecosystems in India have evolved over time. Earlier generations often rose despite limited resources, whereas today’s young athletes increasingly benefit from structured academies, sponsorships and recognition programmes. Sharath Kamal also praised the visibility now being given to sports outside cricket. His words were significant because India’s sporting identity is changing. While cricket remains dominant, disciplines such as badminton, athletics, table tennis, wrestling, hockey and chess are producing international stars. Scholarships like these reinforce the idea that excellence deserves encouragement regardless of the sport.
A scholarship awardee receives her grant and citation
Another emotional moment came when former India swimmer A.V. Jayaveena, herself a past recipient of the scholarship, addressed the gathering. She spoke about how deeply valuable the recognition had been during her own journey. For a young athlete balancing training, studies and uncertainty, external validation can be transformative. Jayaveena said the scholarship gave her confidence, belief and reassurance that she was on the right path. Her testimony served as proof that these awards create lasting impact beyond the immediate financial assistance. When former beneficiaries return as successful role models, they complete the cycle of inspiration. Jayaveena’s advice to the current recipients was powerful: treat this honour not as a destination, but as a humble beginning. Let it fuel hunger, discipline and passion. It was a message rooted in lived experience. Tamil Nadu has long been one of India’s strongest sporting states, producing champions in chess, squash, table tennis, athletics, cricket, football and more. The State’s urban centres, educational institutions and sporting clubs have helped create a competitive environment. However, many talented athletes still come from modest backgrounds and face challenges such as travel expenses, equipment costs, nutrition requirements and tournament fees. In such cases, even relatively modest scholarships can make a meaningful difference. A grant of ₹50,000 may cover coaching expenses, equipment upgrades, competition travel or specialised training support. More importantly, it sends a signal to families that their child’s sporting pursuit is worthy of serious investment. In a society where academic achievement often takes precedence, such recognition helps legitimise sport as a viable and respectable path.
Emerging athletes recognised for their promise
A young cricketer honoured at the ceremony
The role of sports journalists in this initiative is also noteworthy. The Tamil Nadu Sports Journalists’ Association, through sustained engagement, has moved beyond reporting results to actively shaping sporting culture. By identifying talent, organising recognition programmes and collaborating with institutions like CSK and TNCA, the association demonstrates how media bodies can contribute meaningfully to development.
As Indian sport grows increasingly professional, partnerships between federations, franchises, corporate bodies, media organisations and former athletes will become even more important. No single institution can carry the burden of talent development alone. Collaborative models such as the CSK–TNSJA Scholarships offer a blueprint worth replicating across other states.
A junior awardee with the scholarship cheque
For the ten young athletes honoured this year, the applause they received at Chepauk may remain one of their earliest memories of being publicly celebrated. Some may go on to become national champions, international medalists or even legends of their sport. Others may pursue different paths while carrying the confidence this recognition gave them. Either way, the scholarship has already succeeded in affirming their effort and potential. In the grand narrative of sport, major titles and podium finishes capture headlines. But behind every champion lies a series of smaller moments—someone who believed in them, encouraged them, funded them or told them to keep going. This annual scholarship ceremony is one such moment. It is where possibility meets support, where dreams are acknowledged, and where the future of Tamil Nadu sport quietly takes shape.