Journey of Karnataka’s first Woman Grandmaster Isha Sharma
12/12/2025 - In a milestone moment for Karnataka and Indian chess, Isha Sharma has become the state’s first and the country’s 27th Woman Grandmaster. She scored her final IM norm at the IM RR SahArt in Subotica, Serbia, on 14th November. The title came after a long wait of two years and three months. She had previously broken ground as Karnataka’s first Woman International Master, and this achievement adds a new chapter to her journey. She has amazing support from her family and her partner, Sharan Rao, with whom she tied the knot in May this year. She hopes her journey inspires other young players in Karnataka to dream bigger and work harder. Read the article to explore her full journey. Photo: Sagar Shah