Russian chess legend Garry Kasparov found himself at the centre of attention after a cheeky social media post regarding Indian politics, specifically aimed at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, went viral. Kasparov, known for his sharp wit both on and off the chessboard, expressed hope that his jest wouldn’t be mistaken for political advocacy or expertise.
A user on X quipped “feel so relieved that @Kasparov63 and @vishy64theking retired early and didn’t have to face the greatest chess genius of our times.”
Kasparov, in his trademark style, responded with a witty remark, subtly hinting at the importance of winning elections before aspiring for the top spot.
“Traditional (sic) dictates that you should first win from Raebareli before challenging for the top,” wrote the fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin who is based in Croatia after fleeing his country.
The mention of Raebareli was apparently referred to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi who filed his nomination from Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh on Friday. Besides Raebareli, a seat by his mother Sonia Gandhi for two decades, is also contesting from Wayanad in Kerala this Lok Sabha elections.
After the post went viral, the chess legend remarked, “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!”
The banter started when the Congress shared a video of Gandhi playing chess on his mobile phone during his Lok Sabha election campaign. In the video, Gandhi named Kasparov as his favourite chess player, drawing parallels between chess strategies and political manoeuvres.
“I like Kasparov. he puts a lot of psychological pressure. He’s a non-linear thinker,” Rahul Gandhi can be heard saying in the video.
Having held the title of world number one for a remarkable 255 weeks, Garry Kasparov made history by becoming the youngest-ever undisputed world champion at the age of 22 in 1985. Since retiring from professional chess, Kasparov has become a political activist now.
