Viswanathan Anand, often called ‘The Lightning Kid,’ made history on September 3, 1987. At just 17, he became India’s first chess Grandmaster and the youngest in the world at the time. This was the start of an amazing career that would see him become a dominant force in the chess world for decades.
Anand’s journey began at age six in Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu, where his mother, Susheela, taught him the game. He had a natural gift for chess and quickly surpassed his peers. He developed his fast decision-making skills by practicing without a clock, which became a key part of his success.
He rose through the ranks quickly. By age 14, he had already won the National Sub-Junior Chess Championship. He won the Asian Junior and World Junior Chess Championships in 1986 and 1987 before achieving the Grandmaster title.
In the 1990s, Anand became a top global player, known for his exciting and aggressive style. He won the FIDE World Chess Championship in 2000, becoming the first Indian to hold the title. His most impressive period was from 2007 to 2013, when he was the undisputed World Chess Champion, successfully defending his title against some of the greatest players of his generation.
Today, Anand’s influence extends far beyond his playing career. He has become a mentor and administrator, helping to develop the next generation of Indian chess stars. In 2020, he co-founded the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy (WACA) in Chennai. This academy provides world-class training and mentorship to India’s most promising young players. The academy’s success is already clear, with students like D Gukesh and R Praggnanandhaa making headlines on the global stage.
Anand’s role as a mentor and his calm, humble nature have earned him immense respect from peers and fans alike. In 2022, he was elected Deputy President of FIDE, the global chess governing body, further showing his dedication to the sport. Vishwanathan Anand is not just a champion; he is a trailblazer who has helped popularize chess in India, inspiring countless young players to pursue their dreams.
