Watch: Viswanathan Anand, D Gukesh dance during Pongal breakfast-OxBig News Network

The Pongal festivities began early at the residence of five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand, blending the joy of the traditional Tamil harvest festival with the camaraderie of the chess community. Pongal, celebrated primarily in Tamil Nadu, India, marks the beginning of the Tamil month Thai and is observed from January 14 to 17. Spanning four days, it holds immense cultural and agricultural significance, serving as a Thanksgiving to nature, especially the Sun God, for a bountiful harvest.

Anand, however, chose to start the celebrations early, hosting an intimate gathering at his home with Indian chess prodigies. Recent world champion D Gukesh, along with R Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi, and Sagar Shah, were among the invitees. The players embraced the festive spirit by donning traditional attire, including veshtis.

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The morning was filled with warmth, tradition, and laughter as Anand hosted his guests for breakfast. In a delightful turn, the chess legend even joined the young talents in a dance. Despite initial hesitation, the chess prodigies, including Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa, followed Anand’s lead, showcasing their moves alongside their mentor.

Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa are part of the first batch of the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy (WACA), an initiative founded by Anand to nurture young chess talent. The academy provides rising stars with the opportunity to learn from the finest minds in the game, shaping the future of Indian chess.

This unique Pongal celebration highlighted not only the cultural roots of the festival but also the close-knit bond within India’s chess fraternity. With traditions, dancing, and a shared love for chess, the gathering was a heartwarming reminder of the harmony between heritage and modernity.