'Win Rae Bareli...': Kasparov clarifies on his viral post on Rahul Gandhi

Chess legend Garry Kasparov

Renowned chess legend Garry Kasparov weighed in on Indian Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's affinity for the game, advising him to secure victory in Rae Bareli before aiming for the political zenith. The counsel came in response to a recent video where Gandhi named Kasparov as his favorite chess player, drawing parallels between chess and politics while asserting his prowess in the game.

Kasparov's unexpected engagement stemmed from a sarcastic comment by a user on social media platform X, playfully suggesting relief that neither Kasparov nor another chess great, Vishwanathan Anand, had to contend with Gandhi's purported chess genius.

"Traditional dictates that you should first win from Rae Bareli before challenging for the top," wrote Kasparov, adding a touch of wit to his counsel. The 61-year-old, known for his outspoken criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin, currently resides in Croatia.

However, responding to a post by actor Ranvir Shorey, the former world champion quickly clarified that his remark was meant as a joke and not to be taken as serious advocacy or expertise on 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!" he wrote.

Gandhi, who recently filed his nomination from Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh while simultaneously contesting from Wayanad in Kerala, has often drawn parallels between chess and politics, lauding Kasparov as a "non-linear thinker" in the strategic realm.