BHUBANESWAR 22-Jul-2012 294
Five-time world chess champion Viswanathan Anand visited Bhubaneswar , the capital city of Odisha on Sunday. He was here to present the NIIT`s `Turning Point Scholarship` to Rakesh Kumar Mohapatra, a needy college student, and share his `Turning Point` moments from the recent world title clash against Boris Gelfand.
But his official programme took a back seat as Anand met people ranging from Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to Saina Salonika, the youngest Woman Candidate Master of chess in the state. He was so much accessible that any person irrespective of his credential would have shaken hands and photographed with him. Despite the hectic schedule Anand handled everything with a smile.
Following are the excerpts from Anand`s interaction with media at the NIIT`s `Turning Point Scholarship` programme.
On the chess scenario of Odisha: Chess is catching up in the state. Padmini Rout has become popular for her international achievements. I wish her greater success in the future. I also know IM Swayangsu Satyapragnya. He came to my house in Spain.
On his secret to success: It`s simple _ there is no short cut to success. You have to work hard and work your way to the top.
On the prospect of him joining politics: I have answered this question earlier. I once again say that I am not interested.
On whether fitness has any role in the mind game: Playing chess for long hours needs lot of endurance. Hence fitness has a big role to play in chess. I keep myself fit by doing different physical exercises.
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PHOTO: Viswanathan Anand in Bhubaneswar on July 22, 2012.
