Gukesh Dommaraju made a pilgrimage to Neem Karoli Baba's Indian monastery as he prepares to defend his World Champion title. The reigning champion received blessings from a local servant at the ashram ahead of his upcoming match. This spiritual preparation comes as Gukesh readies himself for one of chess's most prestigious contests.

Gukesh will face Uzbek grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov, who qualified by winning the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. The World Championship match runs from November 25 to December 15 in Geneva, Switzerland. This title bout will determine who holds the crown in the world's most elite chess competition.

The monastery Gukesh visited is centered on the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba, a Hindu saint whose spiritual legacy has attracted many notable figures over the years. The ashram continues to draw people seeking its spiritual guidance and blessings.