India’s chess superstar and World Champion, Gukesh Dommaraju, is named Titan of the Year 2026. He was celebrated in a grand event taking place in Mumbai that made the biggest time ever to make watches, Titan, India’s leading watchmaker, honoring his momentous feat of becoming the world’s youngest world Chess champion. To celebrate, Titan launched a dedicated World Champion Edition Watch inspired by Gukesh’s incredible story in the world of chess.
The Titan of the Year is an annual award for people who make a difference in this world. For 2026, Titan selected Gukesh, whose victory of India at the world’s chess podium led to much joy for India. Held at the St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai, the event welcomed dignitaries along with chess lovers and brand ambassadors.
As part of this feat, Titan introduced an exclusive automatic watch priced at ₹69,995 for sale limited to 500 pieces. The design incorporates chessboard‑inspired techniques, as an emblem of Gukesh’s prowess in the game. This commemorative watch isn’t merely a timepiece but more like a collector’s piece also consistent with Titan’s strategy of premiumisation and an aspiration to create sustainable brand value through annual “Titan of the Year” runs.
Titan has made Titan of the Year an annual brand platform. The award went last year to Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut. By honoring people like Gukesh, Titan hopes to inspire the country and solidify its position as a premium watch player. The program signals a move from a series of one‑off commemorations to an ongoing annual franchise that infographics storytelling with craftsmanship.
At 19, Gukesh has emerged as a global icon of attention, discipline and young brilliance. His story as a chess star and the youngest world champion has sparked inspiration in so many young people from all corners of India. The Titan honour cements his icon status as a cultural one, bridging sports as a style, lifestyle, and national pride.
The Titan of the Year 2026 award and the launch of the Gukesh World Champion Edition Watch, is not just an homage to chess, but a celebration of perseverance, excellence, and the burgeoning world power of India. For Titan, it is a bold step in brand storytelling; for Gukesh, it is yet another jewel in his crown of achievements.
