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International Chess Day: The Strategy, Skill, and Beauty of Chess

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29-Jul-2024 | Maitri Singh

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Introduction

World Chess Day is annually observed on July 20 since 1966 to commemorate the establishment of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924 and to celebrate this cultural phenomenon that unites diverse communities and celebrates intellectual growth.

Recognized by the United Nations, this day highlights the role of chess in promoting education, sustainable development, peace, cooperation, and social inclusion. It is one of the oldest intellectual and cultural games which transcends barriers of language, age, gender, physical ability, social status and creates an atmosphere of tolerance and mutual respect.

History and Evolution of Chess

Chess is a game with a rich history that spans over centuries and continents. It originated in India during the Gupta dynasty in the 6th century. Today, chess is played in over 172 countries worldwide.

Early Origins:

Originally known as "Chaturanga,"  which means "four-limbed" in Sanskrit, referring to the ancient army divisions. The game was arranged like an army in battle: infantry (pawns), cavalry (knights), elephants (bishops), and chariots (rooks). The game has also been mentioned in scriptures like the Shiva Purana, where Lord Shiva plays the game of dice on an 8x8 board. Archaeological evidence, including dice, gamesmen, and remnants of brick game boards found at Indus Valley Civilization sites (2500-1750 B.C.), suggests that precursors to chess were both a pastime and a part of learning. These early forms laid the groundwork for the strategic elements that define chess today.

Chess Travels the World:

From India, chess travelled to Persia, where it became known as ‘Chatrang’ and later 'Shatranj' in Arabic. References to the game date back to around 600 A.D. in a Persian manuscript. The Arabs later spread chess to the Islamic world, and through the Moorish conquest of Spain, it reached Europe around 800 A.D. This widespread dissemination led to various adaptations and modifications. By 1300 A.D., chess had already gained popularity across Europe, including Russia, and was often called "the royal game" due to its patronage by nobility. As chess spread, the names of the pieces and some rules changed. The game reached the Far East through the Silk Route and Buddhist pilgrims, leading to variations like Chinese chess and Japanese Shogi, known as the Game of Generals. These regional variations show how the game has been adapted and appropriated. 

Evolution of Modern Chess:

The original Indo-Arabic game underwent significant changes in the 15th century, evolving into the modern version we recognize today. Modern tournament chess began in the second half of the 19th century, with the first international tournament held in 1851. The inaugural World Chess Championship took place in 1886. This era marked the formalisation of chess as a competitive sport with standardised rules and organised competitions. Throughout its history, chess has not only served as a game of strategy but also as a cultural and intellectual bridge between different civilizations. The establishment of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in the 20th century and the introduction of Internet Chess games in the 21st century have further cemented chess's role as a global game. 

The Role of FIDE and AICF

FIDE, founded in Paris in 1924, is the global chess governing body, regulating international competitions and promoting the game worldwide. The All India Chess Federation (AICF), established in 1951 and affiliated with FIDE, develops chess in India by organising national tournaments and supporting player development. AICF's initiatives, like the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy, have fueled India's chess boom, producing young talents such as D. Gukesh.

The Strategy, Skill, and Beauty of Chess

A chessboard consists of 64 squares arranged in an 8x8 grid. Each player starts with sixteen pieces: one king, one queen, two rooks, two bishops, two knights, and eight pawns. This foundational setup has remained consistent through the game's evolution. Mastering the game of chess is like painting a masterpiece, it requires a palette of diverse skills and strategies.

  • Visualisation is the art of seeing moves in the mind's eye, in which the players envision future positions and the effects of each decision, like a chess oracle.
  • Calculation is the mathematical heart, the ability to foresee consequences and devise plots for victory.
  • Tactics are the moves that capture pieces or deliver checkmate with precision.
  • Evaluation is the critic's eye, deciphering who holds the upper hand on the moment, analysing strengths and weaknesses, and predicting the game's flow.
  • Strategy is the grand design, developing plans to gain superior positions, which requires deep positional understanding and foresight.
  • Openings are the foundation, setting the stage for the battle ahead, while endgames are the final strokes, where kings become warriors and pawns transform into game-changers.

Together, these skills create the symphony of chess mastery, where each element harmonises to elevate the player's game to new heights.

World Champions

The world of chess has been shaped by numerous champions who have significantly contributed to its global popularity. From Wilhelm Steinitz, the first official World Chess Champion in 1886, to Ding Liren, the current champion, each has left a unique and lasting impact on the game.

  • Ding Liren: Ding Liren of China is the current World Champion, having claimed the title in 2023 by defeating Ian Nepomniachtchi in a closely contested match. His victory was a significant milestone for Chinese chess, inspiring a new generation of players.
  • Magnus Carlsen: Magnus Carlsen was the World Champion from 2013 until 2023. His innovative style and deep understanding of the game marked his dominance in chess. Carlsen’s decision not to defend his title in 2023 opened the door for new challengers.

Champions from India

India has produced several exceptional chess players who have made significant contributions to the game, both nationally and internationally.

  • Viswanathan Anand: Viswanathan Anand is the most successful Indian chess player, having won the FIDE World Chess Championship in 2000, 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2012.
    • He is the only player to have won world titles in all three formats: classical, rapid, and blitz. Anand’s influence extends beyond his victories, as he also mentors the next generation of players.
  • Koneru Humpy: Koneru Humpy is the highest-rated Indian female chess player, who won the Women’s World Rapid Chess Championship in 2019 and was victorious in the Women's Grand Prix series in 2019-2020.
  • Harika Dronavalli: Harika Dronavalli is the second highest-rated Indian female chess player. She has won bronze medals at the Women’s World Chess Championship in 2012, 2015, and 2017.
    • Her achievements also include winning the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix event in 2016.
  • R Praggnanandhaa: R Praggnanandhaa, the youngest Indian grandmaster, won the World Youth Chess Championship (under-18) in 2019 and the Asian Continental Chess Championship (open) in 2021.
  • D. Gukesh: Among the rising stars, D. Gukesh recently won the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament, becoming the youngest-ever challenger for the World Championship at just 17.
    • He attributes his success to the mentorship of Viswanathan Anand and training at the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy.
       

India's chess scene is thriving, with seven players in the top 20 junior rankings and many promising young talents, including Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin.

The Significance of Chess

Chess is more than just a game; it is a powerful tool for sustainable development and education. The United Nations recognizes its role in promoting critical thinking, strategic planning, and patience. As an inclusive activity, chess can be played anywhere, which breaks down barriers of language, age, gender, and social status.

The educational benefits of chess are significant, with schools around the world incorporating it into their curricula to enhance cognitive abilities. Studies have shown that chess improves problem-solving skills, memory, and concentration. For example, a study titled "Checkmate to Alzheimer's: Chess as a mental workout" discusses its cognitive benefits, while another study found that students engaged in chess classes improved test scores by 17.3%, compared to 4.6% for other enrichment activities.

Chess in Popular Culture

  • There are some classic movies and documentaries based on the game that reveal the charisma of the game, such as Satyajit Ray's 1977 film, "Shatranj Ke Khiladi”. Ray adapts Premchand's story about two kings obsessed with chess while their kingdoms fall into danger during British India. The documentary "Algorithms", follows the journey of three visually impaired boys in India who play competitive chess. It realistically documents their challenges and experiences, featuring Indian National Champion Darpan Inani, who recently became a chartered accountant. Furthermore, Grandmaster Daniel King's book on Mir Sultan Khan, published by New in Chess with a foreword by Viswanathan Anand, chronicles the life of the first Asian chess player to compete at an elite level. Khan was the national champion in 1928 and won British championships in 1929, 1932, and 1933.

Conclusion

  • Despite its global popularity, chess faces several challenges. In many countries, it does not receive the same mainstream attention as other sports. The lack of corporate sponsorship and investment hampers its growth and visibility. Gender disparity also remains a critical issue, as female players often do not receive equal recognition and support. Initiatives to promote women's participation in chess are essential for holistic development. Additionally, while online platforms have made chess more accessible, they risk diminishing the human component from the game. Balancing online and offline chess is crucial for maintaining the game's integrity.

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