Viswanathan Anand, Aruna Anand, and Arjun Erigaisi Discuss India’s Chess Revolution and Rise to Superpower

India’s Chess Revolution: Viswanathan Anand, Aruna Anand, and Arjun Erigaisi Discuss the Game’s Evolution

At a recent Express Adda event in Chennai, India’s first grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, his wife Aruna, and India’s top-ranked chess player Arjun Erigaisi came together to shed light on the chess revolution in India and how the country has become a chess superpower.

Viswanathan Anand, fondly known as Vishy, shared insights on various aspects of the game and the journey of Indian players to the top. He emphasized the role of upbringing in shaping a player’s attitude towards the game, highlighting the importance of being true to oneself.

Speaking on aggression in sports, Anand mentioned how different players thrive under different circumstances, citing examples from his own experiences and those of legendary players like Viktor Korchnoi. He also touched upon the popularity of chess in India, attributing the recent surge in interest to factors like the pandemic and the success of shows like “The Queen’s Gambit.”

Reflecting on the decline of Soviet domination in chess, Anand pointed out the impact of technological advancements like computers on the game. He highlighted the shift in training methods and the dispersal of Soviet players to other countries as key factors in breaking the Soviet stronghold.

Arjuna Anand shared her perspective on the changing mindset towards women in chess, noting the shift from being questioned for her gender to being accepted as a regular part of the chess community. She emphasized the importance of trust and mutual understanding in maintaining a successful partnership, both on and off the chessboard.

Arjun Erigaisi, the rising star of Indian chess, spoke about the financial challenges faced by players and the need for sponsorships to support their training and travel expenses. He also expressed his admiration for his contemporaries and the healthy rivalry that motivates them to excel in the game.

Overall, the discussion at the Express Adda highlighted the growth of chess in India, the challenges faced by players, and the potential for the country to dominate the global chess scene. With the passion and dedication of players like Viswanathan Anand, Aruna Anand, and Arjun Erigaisi, the future of Indian chess looks bright and promising.