Tata Steel’s bond with the game popularising chess in India: Viswanathan Anand

Vishy optimistic about strong Indian Chess team for Asian Games

Jamshedpur, Sept 7: Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand expressed his optimism about the formidable Indian chess team’s prospects at the upcoming Asian Games.

Talking to the media on the sidelines of Tata Steel Asian Junior Open and Girls Championship 2023 at Beldih Club on Thursday, Anand, popularly known as Vishy a legendary figure in the world of chess, stated that he could not have expected a more potent Indian chess team.

Indian chess has been on a remarkable upward trajectory, demonstrated by recent achievements such as four Indian players reaching the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Baku. Among them, R Praggnanandhaa created history by becoming the youngest player ever to clinch a silver medal.

Anand noted the increasing enthusiasm for chess among the youth and emphasized the sport’s growing popularity.

Lauding efforts of Tata Steel towards the development of Chess in India and abroad, Viswanathan Anand said, “Chess as a game is progressing in India and around the globe. From being amateurs at the world stage to scaling top spots in grand tournaments, we have come a long way. The bond with Tata Steel has been long and one to cherish. We have all come of age through Asian Junior Chess Championships and this will be yet another opportunity for the young minds to make bold moves in chess.”

In a recent milestone, Anand’s 17-year-old protégé, D Gukesh, ended the maestro’s 37-year reign as India’s number one chess player by achieving an Elo rating of 2758, surpassing Anand by four points. This achievement marks a significant moment in India’s chess history.

Anand commented on his approach, stating that he doesn’t get nervous by looking at rankings or anticipating tournament victories. Instead, he thoroughly enjoys the game.

When asked about India’s prospects at the Asian Games, Anand acknowledged the presence of strong teams from countries like Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and China, but he expressed confidence in the Indian team’s exceptional capabilities.

Anand also addressed the impact of technology on chess, mentioning that while chess can be played on mobile devices, the physical benefits of playing the game on a traditional board cannot be overlooked.

Anand highlighted the talent within the Indian chess team, emphasizing that their success would depend on their efforts and dedication. He acknowledged China’s strong presence, led by current world champion Ling Diren.

India has announced a 10-member team for both men’s and women’s categories, with players like Gukesh, Praggnananda, Vidit Gujarati, P Harikrishna, and Arjun Erigesi leading the men’s challenge. Meanwhile, two-time Asian Games gold medalists GMs Koneru Humpy and Harika Dronavalli will spearhead the women’s challenge.

Anand, reflecting on the rise of chess in India, mentioned that when he started his academy (WACA) three years ago, he never anticipated such remarkable growth. He pointed out that India now boasts two colleagues in the top 20, with Gukesh not only in the top 10 but also surpassing them.

Responding to a question about Magnus Carlsen’s dominance in chess, Anand said, “Carlsen’s ability to make fewer mistakes, highlighting the world champion’s exceptional skills.”

Earlier, Tata Steel Asian Junior Open and Girls Championship 2023 was declared open by the Indian Chess Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand and Chanakya Chaudhary, Vice President Corporate Services, Tata Steel today.

The matches of the coveted championship will take place between September 8 to 15 at JRD Tata Sports Complex. A total of 121 players from seven countries will participate, which includes 58 girls and 63 boys. The countries include Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Russia, Indonesia, Nepal and India. This vibrant international presence will add a layer of diversity and competitiveness to the championship.