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Xtra Timem Web Desk: Vaishali Rameshbabu created history as she joined brother Praggnandhaa to be the first brother sister duo to become grandmasters in chess world. She is the third female from India to do so after Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli. Her accomplishment occurred at the IV El Llobregat Open in Spain, where she crossed the 2500 FIDE rating threshold after defeating Turkish FM Tamer Tarik Selbes in the second round.

“I am very happy to finally complete the title. It’s just two rounds. I am also focusing on the tournament. But I am really happy with the GM title,” Vaishali expressed her joy to Chess.com.

Notably, Vaishali's achievement marks a historic moment for her family, as she and her younger brother, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, have become the first-ever Grandmaster siblings pair in history. Furthermore, they are the first brother-sister duo to make it to the Candidates.

Vaishali's journey in chess began under the guidance of her father, Rameshbabu, who was an avid chess player himself. Recognizing her potential, he enrolled her in chess coaching at the age of five. Training under Grandmaster RB Ramesh at Chennai’s Bloom Chess Academy played a crucial role in honing the skills of both Vaishali and Praggnanandhaa, propelling them to success in state and national-level tournaments.