Russian GM Petr Kiriakov Compares India’s Chess Growth to Soviet Era Traditions

Russian Grandmaster Petr Kiriakov Draws Parallels Between India’s Chess Growth and Soviet Legacy

Thiruvananthapuram, March 22, 2026 — In a striking comparison, Russian Grandmaster Petr Kiriakov has highlighted the remarkable evolution of chess in India, likening it to the rich tradition established by the Soviet Union during its heyday. Speaking at the ‘Chess for Everyone’ event in Kerala, Kiriakov praised India’s burgeoning chess ecosystem, which he believes mirrors the foundational elements that once made Russia a chess superpower.

Kiriakov, who began his chess journey at the tender age of six during the Soviet era, emphasized that chess’s accessibility played a crucial role in its popularity. “All you needed was a chessboard and pieces,” he noted. “This low barrier to entry allowed the sport to flourish in the Soviet Union, and it seems to be a similar story in India today.”

Reflecting on the current state of chess in Russia, Kiriakov lamented the decline of the nation’s dominance in the sport. “In the top 25 players globally, there’s perhaps only one Russian now,” he stated, contrasting this with the Soviet era when the majority of top players hailed from the region. He attributed this shift to the myriad of distractions available to children today, from video games to other sports.

However, Kiriakov is optimistic about India’s chess landscape. “There is substantial sponsorship and support from political organizations here, which is a significant advantage for players,” he remarked. He noted that many Indian players are honing their skills domestically, making the competition fierce enough that even seasoned grandmasters risk losing rating points when they compete in India.

Kiriakov believes that the key to nurturing future grandmasters lies in popularizing chess among children. “Chess academies are essential,” he asserted, advocating for more tournaments and government support to cultivate talent. He acknowledged the role of technology, stating that while online resources have democratized access to chess knowledge, the social aspect of learning in person remains invaluable.

During his visit, Kiriakov engaged with local players, participating in a simultaneous exhibition where he played against 30 opponents, winning 28 games. “The level of play was strong,” he said, expressing his admiration for the skill level of Indian players.

As he continues to share his expertise, Kiriakov is excited about the future of chess in India. “With nearly 100 grandmasters and a vibrant community of young players, India is undoubtedly one of the best chess countries today,” he concluded.

As the chess community in India continues to grow, Kiriakov’s insights serve as both a reflection of the past and a beacon for the future, inspiring a new generation of players to reach for greatness on the chessboard.