Ethan Vaz

Goa CM Felicitates Ethan with Cash Award

A special moment in Ethan Vaz's journey: On 30 July 2026, Ethan was felicitated by the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, in recognition of his outstanding achievements in chess. The felicitation included a cash award of ₹5 lakh.

The award ceremony, originally scheduled for World Chess Day on 20 July, was subsequently held during the inauguration of the Goa Chess Academy, a landmark initiative of the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs (DSYA Goa), Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) and Goa Chess Association (GCA) to nurture the next generation of chess talent in the State.

At just 14, Ethan completed all the requirements for the Grandmaster title, becoming the world's current second-youngest and India's current youngest Grandmaster. He has also won 30 international medals for India and 10 national medals for Goa.

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“More players like Ethan will emerge from Goa.”

A special message from the Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, as he congratulated Ethan Vaz on becoming a Grandmaster at the inauguration of the Goa Chess Academy, an initiative of the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs (DSYA), Government of Goa, in association with Goa Chess Association (GCA):

“In the future also, more players like Ethan will emerge from Goa, and this chess academy will help for that purpose.”

A meaningful moment for Ethan, and for the future of chess in Goa.

An Honour Like No Other | An Independence Day to Remember

On the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, Ethan and family, along with Ethan's first coach, had the honour of being invited by the Hon’ble Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, and Smt. Suneela Gajapathi Raju to the Independence Day reception at Lok Bhavan, Goa.

What made the evening particularly special was the Governor personally engaging with Ethan, taking an interest in his journey and spending time speaking with him, a deeply memorable experience for Ethan and our family.

The evening also brought the privilege of meeting and being acknowledged by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Pramod Sawant, in the presence of the Governor.

A truly memorable Independence Day evening, filled with honour, warmth and pride in being Indian.

“Maybe One Day, He’ll Be World Champion” | Elvis Gomes on Ethan Vaz

Before the world knew him as a Grandmaster, there were people who believed in Ethan's dream.

Adv. Elvis Gomes, former IAS officer and a long-time well-wisher of Ethan Vaz, was one of those people who stood by his journey, offering encouragement, support and belief long before the Grandmaster title became a reality.

Years later, as Ethan returned home after becoming India's current youngest Grandmaster, Elvis had a message that looked beyond the achievement of today:

“Maybe one day, he'll be World Champion.” ♟️🌍

Sometimes, the most powerful support is not about what someone gives you. It is about the belief they give you, especially when the dream is still far away.

For Ethan, the journey doesn't end with becoming a Grandmaster. The dream is much bigger.

World Champion. 👑

Follow GM Ethan Vaz's journey towards becoming World Chess Champion.

The School That Believed | TKS Welcomes GM Ethan Vaz

Before the world celebrated his Grandmaster title, one school believed in his dream.

As Ethan Vaz returned home after becoming India's current youngest Grandmaster, The King's School gave him a heartfelt welcome at Goa Airport with flowers, garlands, a huge trophy, and a touching tribute celebrating the journey they had witnessed from the very beginning.

This wasn't just a welcome. It was a celebration of years of faith, encouragement, and unwavering support.

The Hug That Said Everything | Homecoming of a Grandmaster | GM Ethan Vaz

After more than a month away from home, Ethan finally returned to Goa, having accomplished all the requirements for the Grandmaster title.

This heartfelt moment captures the first hug between Ethan and his mother after his return home.

🎥 Watch the full video of the homecoming:

https://youtu.be/rJ0GIKkFwRY

Follow Ethan's journey to becoming World Chess Champion.

This Is What Community Looks Like ❤️ | A Surprise Welcome at Home | Grandmaster Ethan Vaz

Sometimes the most memorable celebrations are the ones you never see coming. It was a touching tribute from our neighbours, who came together to honour one of their own after Ethan fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a Grandmaster. Their love and affection transformed an already unforgettable day into one that our family will remember for a lifetime.

Homecoming of a | Returns to a Hero's Welcome in

A big Thank You to everyone who came to welcome Ethan at Dabolim Airport.