 "Magnus Carlsen was in Kolkata for TATA Steel chess after a gap of five years. Image: TATA Steel Chess")
World No. 1 and chess superstar Magnus Carlsen was in awe of the sport’s immense popularity in India as he secured the blitz title with a round to spare at the TATA Steel Chess India 2024 on Sunday. The five-time world chess champion also won the rapid title a few days ago. As the tournament ended, Carlsen reflected on his chess-playing experience in India and returning to Kolkata for the TATA Steel chess after a gap of five years.
“I don’t often get a chance to play in India, but I think the enthusiasm for Chess here is unparalleled. Another great thing to be playing here against the kids and beat them at their home soil,” Carlsen said.
“It was definitely a fun experience to play (in Kolkata). It never really fit my schedule the last few years. But it’s really good to be back to play against these youngsters on Indian soil. I’m happy that I can still play well,” he added.
Meanwhile, another video of Carlsen blushing after an Indian chess player touched his feet while collecting a trophy from him is also going viral. It was India’s Bristy Mukherjee who stunned Carlsen with her heart-warming act. As is the tradition in India, when Bristy Mukherjee was called upon the stage to collect her trophy for winning the All India Women Rapid event (Event B) at the Tata Steel Chess 2024, the Indian chess player decided to touch Carlsen’s feet after having a handshake.
Bristy Mukherjee’s gesture left Carlsen awe-struck as he started to blush after handing over the trophy to the Indian. Bristy Mukherjee had won the All India Women Rapid event (Event B) with a 7/7 score.
Carlsen’s presence at Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Kolkata for the chess event led to a large number of fans turning up at the venue every day to catch a glimpse of the Grandmaster, considered the best chess player of all time.