Bodhana Sivanandan, an 11-year-old student from Harrow in the northwest suburbs of London, does not have a mobile phone, according to her father, who explained to The Guardian that he believes it is too young for her to have one. More unusual, however, is that she has already won three smartphones as prizes for chess tournaments. She told The Guardian that she would like to have a phone one day but is doing very well without one.
Bodhana distinguished herself at the 46th Chess Olympiad, which took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, where she was the best player on the English team in the women's section. In 11 games, she lost only once and achieved four draws and six victories. Her strong performance allowed her to qualify for the prestigious title of International Master of Women's Chess (GMF). The day after the competition ended, on September 27, Bodhana returned to school. She told The Guardian that balancing tournaments and classes does not pose any problem for her: "Now that I am in middle school, I might have more homework, but I should manage."
The Times retraced her rapid career, noting her father's name as Sivanandan Velayutha. Bodhana has been playing chess since she was five years old, and her success has grown steadily over the years. She has participated in numerous national and international tournaments, often competing against older players. Her achievements have made her a notable figure in the chess community, especially for her age and skill level.
Despite her accomplishments, Bodhana remains focused on her education and personal development. She has expressed interest in continuing her chess career while also pursuing her studies. Her father has supported her in balancing both aspects of her life, emphasizing the importance of discipline and time management. As she continues to grow as a player and a student, Bodhana's story serves as an inspiration to young athletes and students alike.
Young Chess Prodigy Wins Titles Without a Mobile Phone
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