Interview with Indian Grandmaster Sasikiran Krishnan: A Journey Through Chess and Life

Indian Grandmaster Sasikiran Krishnan Reflects on Remarkable Chess Journey

Indian Grandmaster Sasikiran Krishnan recently sat down for a 76-minute interview with Arne Kaehler at the ChessBase office in Hamburg, Germany, where he shared personal stories and insights into his incredible chess journey.

Krishnan, who hails from Chennai, India, spoke about how his love for chess began at a young age when his father introduced him to the game as a way to keep him engaged after school. He fondly recalled convincing his father to quit smoking after winning the Under-16 National Championship, a bet his father honored after his unexpected victory.

The Grandmaster also opened up about his experiences working closely with chess legend Viswanathan Anand, detailing their intense preparation for the 2013 World Chess Championship, where they would often work up to 17 hours a day.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the interview was Krishnan’s physical transformation journey. After his father encouraged him to hit the gym, Krishnan lost an impressive 35 kg. However, he pushed his weight loss too far, leading to hospitalization. Despite this setback, Krishnan remains determined and passionate about the game.

Throughout his career, Krishnan has faced challenges both on and off the board, including contracting COVID-19 in 2022, which affected his performance. Despite these obstacles, he continues to evolve and grow as a player, reflecting on the mental and physical hurdles he has overcome.

Krishnan’s story is a testament to perseverance and dedication, showcasing the highs and lows of a professional chess player’s journey. His reflections offer a glimpse into the world of competitive chess and the resilience required to succeed at the highest levels of the game.