Surge of interest in conquering the chessboard

The United Karnataka Chess Association (UKCA) has seen a steady rise in membership in the recent past. Hanumantha Rajanna, secretary of the UKCA, spoke to DNA about Vishwanathan Anand’s fourth world championship victory at Sophia, Bulgaria, and the spurt in interest in the game.

Is chess popular in the state?
It’s a very popular game. Earlier, there were very few players with ratings from FIDE, the organisation that connects various national chess federations and is the governing body of the international chess championships. In the last five years, however, chess has grown phenomenally. We have more than 100 players in the state with a FIDE rating. There was a time, not so long ago, when the UKCA had only 200 members. Today, we can boast of 600. We even have monthly tournaments.

Is there something that explains this great interest in chess?
The curiosity in the game is piqued when we have such great achievements as Vishwanathan Anand’s victory in Sophia. The whole chess fraternity sees this as a shot in the arm. At UKCA, a majority of the office bearers are also chess players. That is the greatest strength of the Association. The office bearers and parents help in conducting more tournaments.

Tell us a little more about the impact Vishwanathan Anand’s feat will have on Indian chess.
Anand’s rising career has served to start up a wave of interest in the game in India. His moves are special, his techniques unique. Just observing him is a lesson.

Are there any events that we could look forward to?
For the first time in the history of Karnataka, the state chess championship was held at the South Kanara District Chess Association. Many of the championships in the different districts have already been held. Holding an event like that helps the districts in conducting more FIDE-rating tournaments.

What incentives are offered to players?
We are planning to conduct more FIDE-rated tournaments and coaching camps. This will provide the players better chances, and they will be awarded cash prizes.
 
What support do you get from the sports minister?
Youngsters with promise need training for competing at the national and international levels. This needs funding. We request the ministry of sports to offer us the infrastructure. We need, for instance, an exclusive indoor stadium for chess in Bangalore, and more intense and professional coaching for our budding talent.

Any chance Anand will train local talent?
Oh, we can’t expect that. Anand is an active chess player; it is difficult to invite him. Young people can learn even by just observing him.