India's recent dominance in chess, culminating in winning the Chess Olympiad in both Open and Women sections and Gukesh D.'s triumph in the World Chess Championship, is the result of a combination of these factors.

 

Lessons we can learn from Indian approach

1. The Legacy of Viswanathan Anand

Anand's rise in the late 20th and early 21st centuries inspired generations of Indian players. He broke cultural and systemic barriers, showing that world-class chess could be achieved from India.

Anand actively mentors younger players, fostering a strong pipeline of talent.

2. Grassroots Development

India has invested in public schools, making chess part of the curriculum in many regions. This ensures early exposure to the game and builds a broad base of young players.

Mandatory chess classes in elementary schools have normalized the sport, much like math or science.

3. Chess as a Cultural Phenomenon

Chess is celebrated in India, with tournaments, festivals, and local clubs flourishing. Platforms like ChessBase India have amplified the sport’s accessibility and visibility.

4. Technological Accessibility

Internet access has enabled young players in India to participate in online chess, study advanced materials, and compete in international arenas. Opening Master in India is offered at much more affordable rate so young chess players spend much less than in Europe or USA.

Platforms like Chess.com, Lichess, and YouTube channels and chess databases have been crucial in democratizing chess education.

5. Government and Private Support

The Indian government has supported chess through financial aid, recognition of achievements, and training facilities.

Corporate sponsorship and NGOs have invested in nurturing talent.

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Lessons for Europe and the USA

1. Europe

• Fragmented Systems: Europe’s chess systems vary by country. A unified approach or pan-European investment in grassroots chess could be beneficial.
• Youth Development: Countries like Norway (with Magnus Carlsen) and Russia have strong traditions, but wider participation at the school level is needed across Europe.
• Cultural Shifts: Celebrating chess as part of popular culture, much like India does, can revitalize interest.

2. USA

• Relied on Immigrant Talent: The USA’s dominance in chess was partly fueled by immigrants (e.g., Bobby Fischer, Fabiano Caruana, Hikaru Nakamura). However, a lack of grassroots programs limits homegrown talent.
• Focus on Quick Returns: The U.S. tends to prioritize results rather than building a strong chess culture. Investment in elementary and middle schools with free chess programs could create a deeper talent pool.
• Over-reliance on Superstars: The U.S. chess scene heavily focuses on a few elite players rather than nurturing the broader base.

Challenges for the USA and Europe

1. Digital Divide: India has taken advantage of affordable digital tools. The U.S. and Europe can leverage these more effectively.
2. Lack of Institutional Support: While chess is popular in Europe, systemic government support (as seen in India) is uneven.
3. Cultural Perception: In India, chess is viewed as prestigious. Europe and the U.S. could benefit from rebranding chess as a vital intellectual pursuit.

What's next?

India’s success is a result of Anand’s legacy, systemic investment in chess education, cultural enthusiasm, and effective use of technology. For Europe and the U.S. to regain dominance, they must prioritize grassroots development, incorporate chess into public education, and embrace chess as a cultural and intellectual pursuit rather than a niche competitive sport. What do you think? Do you see next Boby Fisher or Magnus Carlsen in your school. Or do we just buy them as immigrants. 

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Breaking Records

This month, we are proud to announce that our OM OTB (Over The Board) collection has reached an unprecedented 10,298,048 human chess games. (updated January 5 ,2025) These games are now available for our subscribers to download in both CBV and PGN formats from our cloud folder.

For our correspondence chess players and fans, we also offer the OM CORR special chess database version, featuring 2,217,947 correspondence chess games. Whether you prefer over-the-board play or correspondence chess, we have the resources to help you study, learn, and enjoy the game.

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