Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand has been in the spotlight lately, not just for his incredible achievements but also for his engaging interactions with the younger generation of chess players. From working on a fun pop culture advertisement with World Champion D Gukesh to playfully teasing Grandmaster Praggnanandhaa after his recent victory at Tata Chess Masters, Anand inspires and entertains. Since he became the first Indian Grandmaster in 1988, Anand has transformed the chess landscape in India but also has left an indelible mark on the global chess scene. His journey is an example of the confluence of talent, work, and a passion for the game.

Early life and rise to fame
Born on 11 December 1969, in Chennai, India, Viswanathan Anand began playing chess at age six, learning the game from his mother. His natural aptitude for chess became apparent as he swiftly climbed through local and national competitions. At 15, he became the youngest Indian to earn the title of international master and went on to make history by being the country's first Grandmaster when only 18 years old in 1988. The milestone brought to India a revolution in the game of chess, inspiring thousands of young players and establishing the nation as a formidable force in international chess. Anand's playing style earned him the nickname ‘Lightning Kid’ due to his remarkable speed and quick calculations.

Championship titles
Anand's five world championship titles and numerous tournament victories over three decades make him one of the greatest chess players of all time. His success has also made him receive India's second-highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan, in 2007. Anand became the FIDE World Champion in 2000, winning the title in Tehran, Iran. His significant achievements came in the period between 2007 to 2013 when he was the undisputed World Chess Champion. He defended his title against the world's best players, including Vladimir Kramnik in 2008, Veselin Topalov in 2010, and Boris Gelfand in 2012, before losing it to Magnus Carlsen in 2013.

Vishwanath Anand's net worth
Viswanathan Anand's net worth is estimated at around $5 million (approx Rs.43 crores) as of December 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This is through prize money from various tournaments, endorsements, book sales, and appearances at events.

Inspiring work tips to borrow from Vishwanathan Anand

Take calculated risks: Always be willing to take smart risks, this will open up new opportunities for you and make it harder for your competitors, increasing your chances of success.

Dare to be creative: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try new ideas, being creative can help you stand out in any area.

Have patience: Practice patience when making decisions, taking your time to think things through can lead to taking up better moves, and results and will help you avoid mistakes.

Anand is known for his humble nature and diplomatic character. He has played a crucial role in promoting chess globally and has significantly influenced its growth in India. Viswanathan Anand married Aruna in 1996 and in 2011, the couple had a son named Anand Akhil. His journey from a young boy learning chess in Chennai to becoming a global icon is nothing short of inspiring. His legacy continues to shape the future of chess in India and around the world.