The youngest-ever World Chess Champion received a hero's welcome on his return to India.  

Gukesh Dommaraju, 18, was greeted by his supporters, government officials, and representatives of the national federation gathered at the Chennai International Airport in Tamil Nadu, on December 15.  

Footage shows the crowd surrounding the teenager, adorned with a garland and showered with flower petals.

Upon his arrival, he expressed his gratitude for the support he received.

Gukesh said: 'Thank you for all the support. It means a lot to bring back the trophy to India. Thank you for the reception. I hope we can have a great time in the next few days, celebrating together.'

Staff from Velammal Vidayala school and representatives of the Tamil Nadu Sports Development Authority presented him with a bouquet and draped him in a shawl at the airport lounge.

He made history by defeating China's Ding Liren 7.5-6.5 in Singapore last week, surpassing the record previously held by Russian legend Garry Kasparov and claiming the title of youngest global champion.  

Kasparov had set the previous record in 1985 at the age of 22.  

Local media reports said that his mother, Padmavathi, a microbiologist, joined him in Singapore after the final round, while his father, Dr Rajinikanth, an ENT surgeon, accompanied him during the competition.

A grand event will be held for Gukesh Dommaraju at Kalaivanar Arangam on Wallahjah Road, featuring a parade on December 17.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin presented him with a cheque for 465,000 GBP cash prize.

Stalin said: 'To honour the monumental achievement of Gukesh, the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, I am delighted to announce a cash prize of five crore.

'His historic victory has brought immense pride and joy to the nation. May he continue to shine and achieve greater heights in the future.'

Gukesh has made history by becoming only the second Indian to win the world championship, following in the footsteps of the legendary Viswanathan Anand.

He also played a pivotal role in leading India to its first-ever gold medal at the Budapest Chess Olympiad last September. His victory in the world championship also came with a substantial prize of 1.3 million USD (approximately 1 million GBP).