Viswanathan Anand and Aruna Anand Host Vibrant Pongal Celebration with Indian Chess Stars

Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand and his wife, Aruna Anand, recently hosted a vibrant Pongal celebration at their Chennai home, bringing together some of the brightest stars of Indian chess. Among the attendees were prodigious talents Gukesh Dommaraju and Vidit Gujrathi, who joined the Anand family for a morning filled with traditional festivities, laughter, and camaraderie.

The celebration held a special touch for Vidit Gujrathi, who recently got engaged. Anand and Aruna welcomed the young couple in true South Indian style, involving them in various rituals symbolizing love and prosperity.

One such tradition added a chess-themed twist when the couple played a game to retrieve a chess piece from a pot of milk. As they each pulled out a piece, it was Vishwanathan Anand’s wife, Aruna Anand, who happened to emerge as the star!

Aruna, who also doubles up as Vishwanathan’s manager, seized the moment to make a playful jab at Magnus Carlsen. Her remark alluded to Carlsen’s shared victory with Ian Nepomniachtchi at the 2024 World Blitz Chess Championship, a result that sparked controversy and allegations of match-fixing.

Vidit joined in on the lighthearted banter, adding, “But, sharing the title is now the thing.” To which Anand quipped, “It doesn’t end well,” sending the room into peals of laughter.

The jovial atmosphere carried on as someone suggested Gukesh should take part in similar rituals. “Everything is ready, only a girl is needed,” a voice chimed from off-camera. Gukesh joined in the laughter, while Aruna humorously added, “That is okay. We can photoshop the girl into the photos later.”

The event showcased not only the warmth of the Anand household but also their ability to blend tradition with the humor and camaraderie that bind the chess community.