The Rise of Chess in India: From Anand to a New Generation of Grandmasters

Chess in India: From Anand to a New Generation of Grandmasters

New Delhi – The game of chess has seen a remarkable transformation in India, evolving from a niche interest to a national phenomenon. This surge in popularity can be traced back to Viswanathan Anand, India’s first Grandmaster, who became a world champion in 2000. His success laid the groundwork for a new generation of chess talent that has exploded in recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Until 1988, India had no Grandmasters. Fast forward to today, and the country boasts 95 GMs, with Kolkata’s Aronyak Ghosh recently earning the title. India now ranks second globally in both the Open and Women’s categories in official FIDE rankings, a testament to its burgeoning chess culture.

The Hidden Costs of Becoming a Grandmaster

While chess may seem accessible—requiring only a board and pieces—the journey to becoming a Grandmaster is fraught with financial challenges. Srinath Narayanan, India’s 47th GM, emphasizes that while initial costs are low, the expenses skyrocket once players enter the professional realm.

“Chess is inexpensive to start, but once you go professional, it’s as costly as any other sport,” he explains. Unlike team sports, where infrastructure and coaching are often provided, chess players must shoulder their own expenses, including travel and training.

The Price of Progress

Traveling to international tournaments is essential for improving ratings and achieving norms, but it comes at a steep price. Narayanan notes that post-COVID, travel costs have surged, making it increasingly difficult for players to compete abroad. “There are limited tournaments in India, and to improve, you need to play in Europe, where the competition is tougher,” he adds.

Onkar Jadhav, a chess trainer from Nashik, estimates that aspiring Grandmasters may need to invest between ₹1.5 to ₹2 crore to reach their goals. This includes coaching fees, tournament expenses, and travel costs. “It’s not just about talent; financial backing is crucial,” he states.

The Role of Sponsorship

The disparity in opportunities often boils down to financial resources. Jadhav points out that many talented players struggle without sponsorship. “If a child is talented but lacks financial support, they fall behind,” he laments. There’s a pressing need for sponsors to step in and support promising players, especially those who excel in national or international competitions.

Earnings and Opportunities

As for recovering the investment, opinions vary. Narayanan suggests that the influx of Grandmasters has made it harder for individuals to stand out and attract sponsorships. “The talent pool is enormous, and it’s challenging to make a living solely from playing,” he explains. Many players supplement their income through coaching, which has become a viable career path.

In contrast, Jadhav believes that once players reach the Grandmaster level, they can quickly recoup their investments through coaching and tournament winnings. “In a country of 1.4 billion, there are only 95 Grandmasters, creating a high demand for coaching,” he notes.

A Bright Future for Indian Chess

The post-2020 boom in chess has not only elevated India’s status on the global stage but has also made the competition fiercer for aspiring players. As more children take up the game, the landscape is changing rapidly.

With the right support and resources, the next generation of Indian chess players could continue to shine, following in the footsteps of legends like Anand. The future of chess in India looks promising, but navigating the financial hurdles will be crucial for those aiming to reach the pinnacle of the sport.