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India's recent triumph at the Chess Olympiad, securing both the open and women's categories gold medals, stands as a testament to the nation's remarkable progress in the sport. This victory, achieved by a team spearheaded by young talents like R Praggnanandhaa, D Gukesh, and Arjun Erigaisi, marks a watershed moment in Indian chess history. Coach RB Ramesh, who played a pivotal role in shaping these young stars, attributes the success to a collective effort and a legacy cultivated by the legendary Viswanathan Anand.
Ramesh emphasizes the exponential growth of Indian chess over the past decade, highlighting Anand's profound influence. While Anand once stood as the sole flagbearer, his accomplishments and dedication inspired a new generation of players to embrace the game with passion and dedication. This influence is readily evident in the idolization of Anand by the current crop of Indian chess players, who now reap the benefits of his tireless efforts to cultivate a thriving chess ecosystem in the nation.
The article delves into the thriving chess culture in Chennai, Anand's hometown, citing several contributing factors. These include the active involvement of Tamil Nadu's Chess body, the legacy of the old AICF head office in Chennai, the generous support of private sponsorships, and the proliferation of chess academies in the city. This fertile ground nurtured the growth of young talent and fueled the nation's chess ambitions.
Looking ahead, Ramesh emphasizes the importance of maintaining a perennial system for nurturing future generations of top-tier chess players. The goal is to ensure India's continued dominance in the game by consistently producing a new wave of talented players every five years. This strategy aims to avoid the pitfalls of over-reliance on individual talents, as witnessed in Europe, where a lack of fresh talent led to a decline in the sport's growth. By fostering a culture of continuous development and encouraging young players, particularly women, India seeks to solidify its position as a global powerhouse in chess.