‘Chess helps excel in studies’

‘The King’ has conquered the hearts once more. It was the launch of the Mind Champions Academy of NIIT in the city.

Apparently, the organisers cannot hope for a better and more pleasing ambassador than the world champion of 64 squares – Viswanathan Anand. And, touching the imagination of the select gathering, Anand reminded the audience about his romance with the ‘City of Pearls’. “I have a special affinity with this city having won the World Cup the last time I played an international event here,” he said amidst applause.

Going one step further and striking empathy, he reminded the growing influence of Andhra Pradesh in the world of chess.
Chess centre

“This State has emerged as a major chess centre. There is plenty of young talent which is keen to emulate the likes of Humpy, Harikrishna and Harika. And, we at NIIT make a sincere attempt to provide them with the desired exposure and training,” he said.

The champion acknowledged the fact that from 63 schools when the NIIT concept was launched it grew in number to 2005 schools in the State. “We are grateful to the support of the State government and other related wings for this,” he said

“Research has shown that those who play chess do remarkably well in academics. This is the guiding principle for NIIT concept,” was his reply to those hesitant parents in encouraging their chess-loving children. What makes Anand so special even now? “Well, essentially I enjoy the game, keep working hard and love to compete.”

Does he set any targets? “Not really. Even in this era when chess is becoming younger across the world as reflected by the fact that five players have become GMs at the age of 12 of late,” he pointed out. “Significantly, I got the best results in the last three years,” he quipped.
Fitness mantra

Keeping himself fit by cycling and a bit of mountaineering, Anand also is a keen follower of Indian cricket team and was disappointed with the recent show. “It is disappointing to see India knocked out. These things do happen in sport. But, let me tell you it is always very difficult to retain a title,” he pointed out.