Chess in Gujarat flourishing: Viswanathan Anand

Every time world champion Viswanathan Anand comes to Ahmedabad, he  carries back good memories. On Monday, he witnessed IWM Dhyani Dave entering the Limca Record books after she played simultaneously with 150 players at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. The record-breaking event was part of Swami Vivekanand Women Chess Festival held in the state capital.

“It is always a pleasure to come to Ahmedabad. My first visit to city in the 80s coincided with my national title. During my last visit in 2010, I saw a new world record being created when more than 20,000 players played the game at a single venue. And today, two more wonderful records have been set,” said the wizard, referring to Dhyani’s feat and 4,000 women playing the 64-square game under one roof.

Anand also praised the Gujarat government for promoting chess. “I am excited to see 4,000 girls playing together. I feel chess community in Gujarat is lucky to have such promoters. I hope we will have such enthusiasm across the country,” said Anand.  This was Anand’s first visit to Gujarat after winning his fifth world title.

Grandmaster Pravin Thipsay, WGM Swati Ghate, IWM Bhagyashree Thipsay and nine-year-old Asian champion Ankita Agarwal and local boy IM Ankit Rajpara were felicitated at the function.

Speaking at the event, senior BJP leader LK Advani said that he was fortunate to be present on the occasion. He also said that budding players should draw inspiration from Olympic medal winners like Saina Nehwal and MC Mary Kom. “I was surprised to know that Mary is a mother of two kids. This means, we have immense talent and potential to conquer the world,” he said.