Bodhana Sivanandan (photo by John Saunders) NEW DELHI: Indian-origin chess talent Bodhana Sivanandan has become England’s highest-ranked player, according to the latest FIDE list. At just 11 years old, she now has a rating of 2366, moving ahead of four-time British champion Lan Yao. Based in North London, Bodhana’s journey is particularly remarkable given that she only picked up chess during the COVID-19 lockdown.Her success didn’t stop at the national level, Bodhana also entered the world’s top 100 players for the first time, currently ranked 72nd.
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Exclusive Nihal Sarin: 2026 Candidates Predictions, Anish Giri’s ‘Drawish’ Label & More #chess Her rise has been described as extraordinary, especially for a young schoolgirl who started 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 work on the world stage. One of her standout moments came when she beat former world champion Maria Muzychuk at a major European tournament in Greece.Her achievement drew praise from many, including former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who shared a personal memory. “Huge congratulations to Bodhana Sivanandan for becoming England’s top female chess player at just 11 years old. We played together in Downing Street Gardens once. Let’s just say her achievement was not shocking,” he said.Its impact was also praised by officials of the English Chess Federation. “She is blazing a trail not only for women and girls in the game but for all chess players in England. Across all sports she has to be one of the most amazing talents England has ever produced,” said CEO Richard Walsh.
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With her dedication and family support, Bodhana is already competing at the highest level and her journey is just beginning.
