Air India recently paid a heartfelt tribute to India’s chess prodigy and the youngest World Chess Champion, D Gukesh, with a specially curated in-flight celebration. The moment was captured and shared by Captain Laxmi Joshi, a prominent Air India pilot and social media figure with over 1.3 million followers on Instagram.
In a now-viral Instagram Reel, Joshi is seen presenting Gukesh with an elegantly prepared dessert platter, marking the young champion’s incredible achievement on the global stage. The video has garnered over 3.3 million views, with thousands applauding the gesture and Gukesh’s humility.
What Was On the Special Dessert Menu?
The visually delightful spread presented to Gukesh included:
- Chocolate pastries topped with white chocolate dots
- A mango mousse cake, beautifully garnished with a cherry and whipped cream
- A bowl of fresh-cut tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, kiwi, and dragon fruit
- Bowls of saffron-flavoured rasmalai, offering a creamy Indian touch
Pilot Laxmi Joshi wrote in the caption:
“Had the honour of flying the World Chess Champion, Gukesh. Whether in the skies or across the chessboard — focus, strategy, and humility always triumph. Here’s to young legends making India proud.”
A Humble Champion Wins the Internet
Social media users were quick to react to the video, with comments pouring in from all corners. The sentiments echoed pride in India’s rising chess talents and appreciation for the airline’s thoughtful gesture. Some of the comments included:
- “Nice gestures of you all crew members (The very simple gestures are often the ones that have the biggest effect).”
- “His simplicity and humbleness speaks a lot about him.”
- “This is how all our champions should be treated!”
- “Exceptionally grounded personality. Wishes for making nation proud.”
The overwhelming response highlights how small but meaningful acts of respect toward athletes leave a big impact on the public’s consciousness.
Gukesh’s Triumph at 2025 Grand Chess Tour Rapid Event in Zagreb
While the Air India moment touched hearts, Gukesh’s performance at the board continues to stun the chess world.
At the 2025 Grand Chess Tour Rapid Tournament held in Zagreb, Croatia, 19-year-old Gukesh clinched the title in spectacular fashion. The tournament is one of the most prestigious annual events in the chess calendar and sees participation from the world’s elite players.
In the final round, Gukesh defeated American Grandmaster Wesley So in 38 moves with the white pieces. The win sealed his first-place finish with 14 out of 18 points in the rapid section.
Final Standings – Zagreb Rapid Chess 2025
| Rank | Player | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | D Gukesh (India) | 14 |
| 2 | Jan-Krzysztof Duda (Poland) | 11 |
| 3 | Magnus Carlsen (Norway) | 10 |
| 4 | Praggnanandhaa (India) | 9 |
| 4 | Fabiano Caruana (USA) | 9 |
This edition was the third leg of the 2025 Grand Chess Tour, following earlier events held in Poland and Romania. Upcoming legs will take place in the USA in August and Brazil from September to October.
🇮🇳 Gukesh: India’s New Chess Icon
With his recent performances, Gukesh Dommaraju has firmly cemented his status as India’s brightest chess sensation. In 2024, he became the youngest World Chess Champion, surpassing the legacy of legends like Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen.
Known for his calm demeanor and strategic brilliance, Gukesh has not only brought home accolades but also inspired millions of young Indians to take up chess seriously.
Captain Laxmi Joshi: The Sky Warrior Behind the Viral Reel
The pilot who hosted Gukesh mid-air, Captain Laxmi Joshi, is no stranger to national service. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was a part of India’s Vande Bharat Mission, flying stranded Indian nationals back home and delivering medical essentials, including vaccines and PPE kits.
Her heartfelt caption and respectful hospitality toward Gukesh have earned her widespread praise once again.
Why This Moment Matters
In an era where sports stars are often seen through the lens of celebrity, this simple yet powerful in-flight celebration reminds us of the real essence of sport — humility, excellence, and national pride. Recognizing and celebrating young champions like Gukesh at every opportunity not only honours their hard work but also sets a precedent for others to follow.
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