In a momentous interaction highlighting India's glorious chess legacy, young FIDE-rated chess champions Alokik Maheshwari, Aradhya Upadhyay, and Hardik Shah from Rajasthan, accompanied by their coach Mr. Prakash Parashar, had the esteemed opportunity to meet renowned industrialist and dedicated patron of chess, Shri L.N. Jhunjhunwala. This distinguished meeting took place at Shri Jhunjhunwala's residence in New Delhi on June 9, following the players' day-long participation in the 21st Delhi International Open Grandmasters Chess Tournament, at Tivoli Gardens in Chhatarpur, Delhi.
The players are students of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, Hurda (Rajasthan), one of four schools established by Shri Jhunjhunwala to promote quality education and holistic development in the rural areas of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. This occasion not only celebrated their achievements but also underscored the profound inspiration they drew from his long-standing contributions to the development of Indian chess.
Shri Jhunjhunwala's vision transformed a personal passion into a national movement. His foresight and actions elevated chess beyond just a game, viewing it as a tool for developing essential life skills such as strategic thinking, discipline, and mental fortitude. He effectively bridged the gap between education and culture through this sport, allowing it to reach various strata of society.
His contribution to the chess revolution in India has been pivotal. Through the National Chess Trust of India, established in 1973, he strengthened the infrastructure of chess in the country. His efforts led to the organization of India's first Grandmasters Tournament in 1982, which elevated India's international standing. He advocated for the inclusion of chess in school curricula and founded the Botvinnik Chess Academy, where he mentored players like Viswanathan Anand and Abhijit Gupta.
Shri Jhunjhunwala's commitment was not limited to chess alone. He also supported other sports such as karate, archery, air-weapon shooting, yoga, and athletics, aiming to ensure the physical and mental development of young students. This comprehensive vision of his has become a paradigm for the synergy between education and sports. He also launched the country's first chess magazine, “CHESS India,” and fostered international cooperation. His innovative endeavors not only popularized chess in a cricket-dominant nation but also instilled the belief that Indian players could excel on the global stage, a conviction that laid the foundation for today's victories.