5-year-old Aarini Lahoty becomes India’s highest rated and youngest chess player in her age group

Meet Aarini Lahoty, the 5-year-old chess wonder from Delhi making big waves in the chess community. Born in September 19, 2019, Aarini has emerged as India’s top rated player in her age group, with a FIDE rating of 1551 as of August 11, 2025. That’s much higher than her peers, and she’s now India’s youngest female FIDE-rated player.

Aarini’s chess journey started when she was just two years old, watching Magnus Carlsen play on TV screen. Her father, Bluebells School International chess player and coach Surendar Lahoty, saw how interested she was and began to teach her. “From the time she was one, she would arrange the board on her own,” he said. Now Aarini plays in older age groups, Under-7, Under-9, and Under-11, and has even won some trophies and medals.

When asked to introduce herself, Aarini proudly and confidently said, “Aarini Lahoty. From Delhi, New Delhi.” She said she enjoys playing chess, particularly with the white pieces, because she get to make the first move. When asked about her favorite chess player she said her dad, Surendar. She nods reassuringly when asked if she’s good about being the youngest female FIDE-rated player in India.

Aarini’s school-and-play routine holds a central place in her day. Post school, she naps for one and half hours, and then plays outdoors as her mother manages her education. Surendar pays special attention to her chess training, and she has come an incredible long way. “She is so fond of puzzles that she will send me photographs saying, ‘Please solve this immediately’ if she gets stuck,” her father says.

The Lahoty family makes sure there’s no unhealthy pressure on Aarini. “We keep it balanced, studies, chess, swimming. The school is very supportive and gives her the freedom to focus on her dreams,” Surendar adds. Aarini’s dad has a clear cut plan for her future. “We want her to become the youngest IM and GM of India, and make everyone proud.” he said.