Originally regarded as a niche pastime, Chess is rapidly gaining popularity in India. The rise in ardent fans and exceptional players marks a significant stride in the global gaming scene. Recently highlighting this surge in popularity, GM Arjun Erigaisi clinched victory at the Sharjah Master’s International Chess Championship 2023. Organized annually by the Sharjah Cultural and Chess Club in Sharjah, UAE, this championship promotes chess as a sport and cultural activity, offering players the chance to compete and enhance their skills.
Factors Behind Chess’ Popularity In India
Several elements contribute to the growing fascination with Chess in India. Here are some key factors:
Emergence of Exceptional Players
India boasts numerous skilled young chess players including D. Gukesh (World No. 18), Arjun Erigaisi (World No. 37), R. Praggnanandhaa (World No. 47), and Nihal Sarin (World No. 64). Ranked second globally in international chess, India has a robust representation in the game. Five-time World champion Viswanathan Anand serves as a mentor to the emerging generation of Indian players.
Global Success
The impressive performance of Indian Chess players on the international stage has significantly amplified the sport’s appeal domestically. The enthusiasm for the game continues to grow due to the emergence of talented players and the impact of gifted teenagers. Notably, India hosted the 44th Chess Olympiad in Chennai in 2022, the first time the competition was held in the country and in Asia after three decades.
Nurturing Talent through Chess Academies
The WestBridge Anand Chess Academy plays a critical role in fostering young talent and offering them guidance. Viswanathan Anand’s hands-on approach in mentoring promising players has raised the bar for Indian Chess. The proliferation of Chess academies and training programs has presented young enthusiasts with opportunities to sharpen their skills.
Widespread Media Coverage and Increased Audience Engagement
Major chess events such as the Chess Olympiad and Tata Steel Chess India have drawn substantial media attention recently. Spectator participation and fan engagement have surged, with live chess tournaments attracting thousands of attendees. Enhanced media coverage and online streaming have opened up chess to a broader audience.
Role of All India Chess Federation (AICF)
Founded in 1951 and affiliated with Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE), the world body for chess, AICF plays a crucial role. It organizes national-level tournaments, supports player development and training, represents India in international chess organizations, identifies and nurtures young talent, facilitates participation in international tournaments, and advocates for the inclusion of chess in school curricula.
Challenges in Promoting Chess in India
Promoting Chess in India is not without its hurdles. Compared to other sports, Chess receives limited mainstream attention. There is also a dearth of corporate sponsorships and investment in elite tournaments. Moreover, there is a need for more emphasis on women’s chess and talent identification.
Indian Victories on the World Stage
Several Indians have left their mark on the global stage. Viswanathan Anand is considered the most successful Indian chess player, having won the FIDE World Chess Championship five times, the World Rapid Chess Championship twice, and the World Blitz Chess Championship twice.
Equally accomplished in the female category, Koneru Humpy holds the title of being the highest-rated Indian female chess player. She clinched victory at the Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship in 2019 and the Women’s Grand Prix series in 2019-2020.
Following closely, Harika Dronavalli is the second highest-rated Indian female chess player. She won the bronze medal at the Women’s World Chess Championship thrice and clinched victory in the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix event in Chengdu in 2016. R Praggnanandhaa, the youngest Indian grandmaster and one of the most promising talents in world chess, won the World Youth Chess Championship (under-18) in 2019 and the Asian Continental Chess Championship (open) in 2021.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024