Garry Kasparov Issues Clarification After Post on Rahul Gandhi Goes Viral
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 4th May. Russian chess legend Garry Kasparov has sought to clarify his recent social media post concerning Indian politician Rahul Gandhi, emphasizing that it was intended as a “little joke” and not as a statement of advocacy or expertise in Indian politics.
“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!” Kasparov stated in response to actor Ranvir Shorey’s post, which appeared to be a subtle jab at Rahul Gandhi’s chess skills.
Kasparov’s comment came in the wake of Rahul Gandhi’s recent assertion of being the best chess player among Indian politicians and his declaration of Kasparov as his favorite chess player. This claim was supported by footage shared by the Congress party, showing Gandhi playing chess on his mobile phone during the Lok Sabha election campaign.
Responding to a cheeky comment on his page, which suggested relief that Kasparov and Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand retired early and avoided facing the supposed greatest chess genius of the times, Kasparov quipped, “Traditional (sic) dictates that you should first win from Raebareli before challenging for the top.”
Rahul Gandhi, while naming Kasparov as his favorite chess player, drew parallels between chess and politics, describing the game as a domain where “the opponent’s pieces actually operate almost like your own.”
Rahul Gandhi filed his nomination from Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh and is also contesting from Wayanad.
Kasparov, a former world number one for a record 255 weeks and the youngest-ever undisputed world champion at 22 in 1985, has transitioned into political activism and remains a prominent figure in the chess world.
In a recent congratulatory post on X, Kasparov hailed 17-year-old D Gukesh, who broke his record by becoming the youngest challenger to the world title after winning the Candidates Tournament in Toronto, describing him as “the Indian earthquake in Toronto.”
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