Renowned Russian chess grandmaster Garry Kasparov found himself in the midst of a lighthearted social media storm after his playful remarks on the chess skills of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi went viral.
Kasparov’s humorous comment, suggesting that Rahul Gandhi should “first win Rae Bareli before challenging for the top,” quickly gained attention online. However, the 61-year-old chess legend was swift to clarify that his statement was meant as a jest and not to be interpreted as serious advocacy or political expertise.
In response to actor Ranvir Shorey’s tweet, which appeared to mock Rahul Gandhi’s recent claim of being the best chess player among Indian politicians, Garry Kasparov wrote, “I very much hope my little joke does not pass for advocacy or expertise in Indian politics! But as an ‘all-seeing monster with 1000 eyes,’ as I was once described, I cannot fail to see a politician dabbling in my beloved game!”
Rahul Gandhi’s affinity for chess came into the spotlight after the Congress party shared a video of him playing chess on his mobile phone during his Lok Sabha election campaign. In the video, Rahul Gandhi named Garry Kasparov as his favourite chess player and drew parallels between the game and politics, describing Kasparov as a “non-linear thinker.”
Also Read: PM Modi slams Congress leader’s ‘vote jihad’ remark, points at party’s ‘dangerous intentions’
Garry Kasparov, known for his sharp and strategic mind both on and off the chessboard, playfully responded to a cheeky comment suggesting relief that Kasparov and Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand retired early and didn’t have to face “the greatest chess genius of our times.”
I very much hope my little joke does not pass for advocacy or expertise in Indian politics! But as an “all-seeing monster with 1000 eyes,” as I was once described, I cannot fail to see a politician dabbling in my beloved game! https://t.co/MlBnR4PeZ6
— Garry Kasparov (@Kasparov63) May 3, 2024
The former world chess champion, who retired from professional chess in 2005, is now based in Croatia and is a vocal critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Despite stepping away from competitive chess, Garry Kasparov remains active in political activism and commentary.
In another recent chess milestone involving India, Garry Kasparov congratulated 17-year-old D Gukesh for winning the Candidates Tournament in Toronto and becoming the youngest challenger to the world title, dubbing him “the Indian earthquake in Toronto.” Kasparov’s ongoing engagement with the chess world and his playful interactions on social media continue to captivate fans and followers globally.
