WALKING the Red Carpet of Rashtrapati Bhavan and with her parents — Dr Jitendra and Dr Namrata in attendance — Nagpur’s chess sensation Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh described it as an emotional moment while receiving the Arjuna award from President Droupadi Murmu. The Indian chess star Divya received country's second-highest sporting honour during a glittering function in New Delhi, on Friday. Speaking with ‘The Hitavada’, Divya termed it as a proud and surreal moment. “It was a very proud and special moment. Walking up to receive the award was surreal. I felt a mix of happiness, gratitude and pride representing my country,” said Divya.

 

The 20-year-old said it was an emotional moment while receiving the prestigious award from President Murmu. “It was a very emotional (moment). Having my parents there made the moment even more special. They have been part of this journey, and sharing this achievement with them meant a lot to me,” said Divya about how she felt with her family members in attendance during the award ceremony.

 

The 2024-2026 was a career-defining period for Divya who achieved major milestones, highlighted by a historic World Cup victory, Grandmaster title, and Olympiad gold medal. She said it was a huge honour to win the Arjuna award and it will only motivate her to perform much better in future. “It is a huge honour and recognition of my efforts. It motivates me to keep working hard and achieve more for India,

 

” Divya, who will turn 21 next month, said. Divya, who is also a recipient of Maharashtra’s Shiv Chhatrapati award, said the Arjuna award gives her a greater sense of responsibility. “Definitely, it brings a greater sense of responsibility. But I see it more as motivation than pressure. I want to continue giving my best and make the country proud. The years of hard work and sacrifices has culminated in Divya getting the award this year. “This award represents years of hard work, sacrifices, challenges and support from many people. It makes the entire journey worthwhile,” the Grandmaster stated. “I would like to dedicate this award to my parents, family members, my coaches and everyone who has supported me throughout my journey. This achievement would not have been possible without them,” Divya signed off.