Chess it is a way of life now

There were many reasons that kept me away from my village. Then one fine day, I landed after 20 years, on my village. On the material front, lots of changes were there, the cycles have been replaced by the scoots, bikes and in some cases by cars too. But, mentally and physically I did not noticed much difference 20 years back and now. Back then for to pass time, youngsters (including me) use to play cards and now too they are playing cards for timepass. Sometime money too in involved.

There was one change, now, youngster and middle age sit comfortably and are playing card game – pattan pandu (mendi coat) sitting together. My thought were, if they continue like this they hardly have any future.

Then a thought passed my mind why not teach them to play chess. That was last year. This year, I purchased two chess boards. The funniest part was I too don’t know to play chess. I learnt watching various YouTube channels.

I landed on my village with two chess boards. My task was to collect few children’s who are yet to be introduced to playing cards. I should say, I was lucky in that, I started teaching them the art of playing chess, the rule of the game, the moves. These children’s are quick learners.

It took two days for them to learn the moves. By now, children were regular in playing chess. I wanted more children and youngsters to join in playing chess. I came up with an award of Rs. 101/- for winners. The chess matches were going to be held on Sunday. There were equal numbers of females. The prize money did the trick. The children started showing interest. Slowly, the mother too started to show keen interest. Now, it was time to bring in more chess board. But, I wanted someone from the village to contribute (donate) two chess boards. There was this lady, a relative on mine, who had retired from government service and is getting pension. Even her husband too is getting pension. I zeroed in on pensioners retired from government services or wealthy individual with lots of land. After, much persuasion, I collected enough money to buy two more chess boards. Now, there were four chess boards. The players started increasing day-by-day. From few children, mothers and youngsters started playing chess.

The Amman Kovil was selected as the first venue for the very first chess contest. Total contestant from five years and above participated. There were 20 contestants in all. The whole villagers have gathered for the event, which was not expected. The contest had it own share of arguments and counter arguments between contestants. In the end the first chess contest of the village ended and the winner was announced. The winner took away Rs. 101/- followed by the Rs. 51 for the runner up.

I left with good memories of the first chess contest. I asked the children to keep practicing. This game is played at National and International level and huge amount is given to the winner. Last I heard the villagers have taken it seriously and are practicing daily.