New Delhi: Five time World Champion Viswanathan Anand has said that in today’s data driven chess environment, deep understanding rather than access to information is what truly sets players apart. Speaking at the opening of a three day chess workshop, Anand observed that the explosion of computer generated analysis has made it harder for players to meaningfully absorb knowledge.
He noted that modern players are constantly exposed to new engine evaluations and fresh conclusions, making it impossible to internalise everything. According to him, the ability to interpret and deeply understand positions is now the defining quality of elite competitors. Drawing from his own experience of adapting to computer analysis years ago, Anand said openness to innovation is important, but genuine progress comes from grasping finer details.
The Grandmaster also stressed that mastery in chess relies more on pattern recognition than rote memorisation. Having competed in an estimated six to seven thousand professional games, he explained that the human mind subconsciously stores patterns from games observed or played. Often, players generate new ideas without realising they are drawing from past exposure.
Comparing chess to learning a language, Anand said theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient. Just as fluency in a language develops through conversation rather than memorising dictionary entries, chess skill grows through active engagement and practical play. He described theoretical preparation as raw ingredients, with the real creativity emerging during the actual contest on the board.
Anand also supported efforts to expand chess beyond its traditional strongholds in Tamil Nadu. He welcomed initiatives aimed at nurturing talent in cities such as Madurai, Salem and Coimbatore, similar to the success seen in Chennai.
The event coincided with the launch of his book Lightning Kid, published in collaboration with the Velammal Education Trust, which is hosting the masterclass from February 12 to 14. Several leading Indian players, including Grandmasters and international masters ranked among the world’s best, are alumni of the institution, reflecting its growing influence in shaping the country’s chess landscape.
