Calcutta/Chennai: The All India Chess Federation (AICF) Wednesday reiterated its demand of conferring Bharat Ratna on Viswanathan Anand after the Grandmaster clinched his fifth World Championship title in Moscow.

“On this great occasion, we request the government of India to honour Viswanathan Anand with Bharat Ratna. Our request has been pending with the Central government… He deserves the coveted award,” AICF president JCD Prabhakar said.

He said the chess fraternity was ecstatic at Anand’s achievement and wished him all the best for the future.

“We are in a jubilant mood after Anand established himself as the world champion once again. In the midway through the match we thought Anand was rather subdued in his usual favourite format but perhaps he was working his way for solidity in defeating the rival,” he said.

Sachin Tendulkar also heaped praise on the world champion. “Congratulations to Vishwanathan Anand. 5th world chess championship..... You make all Indians so proud!!” Sachin tweeted.

Grandmaster Surya Sekhar Ganguly, who has been part of Anand’s support staff for the last four years, described him as India’s “best sportsperson” and someone who has ended the Russian domination in the sport.

“It’s a game where 180 countries compete. Coming from a third world country, Anand has been successful by ending the Russian dominance in chess. He is the undisputed king in sport.”

“We can say this is the best win for Anand. Our six months’ preparation was successful... By winning the fifth title, Anand once again proved himself to be the best sportsperson from India.”

Shah Rukh Khan also congratulated Anand. “Playing chess is not easy. This is the fifth time he has won and it is a moment of celebration. I would ask everyone to celebrate.”