Anand Mahindra & John Abraham's unexpected chess face-off in viral crossover

Anand Mahindra and John Abraham playing chess. (Image: @anandmahindra/X)

Industrialist Anand Mahindra recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a moment with Bollywood actor and motorcycle enthusiast John Abraham, as the two faced off in a game of chess, in a crossover that left social media amused. The venue? The Tech Mahindra Global Chess League season 2 final in London.

Posting a picture of their match, the billionaire cheekily remarked, "Fortunately, both John and I knew that it’s good to quit when you THINK you’re ahead…" – a humorous nod to the art of knowing when to step back, even in a game of strategy like chess. His words drew a flurry of lighthearted comments and observations from followers.

Fortunately, both John and I knew that its good to quit when you THINK youre ahead.(At the Tech Mahindra Global Chess league @GCLlive ) pic.twitter.com/iLbddXxcc4 anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) October 18, 2024

Some users, not missing a beat, suggested business ideas, including a cheeky remark: "Manufacture a sports bike, sir. And make John Abraham the Brand Ambassador… Dhoom Again!"

Others simply praised Mahindra’s statement, calling it a "wise move" and reflecting on the excitement of the event. The Tech Mahindra Global Chess League, now concluded, has attracted chess enthusiasts and celebrities alike.

The season concluded with Triveni Continental Kings retaining their crown; they had won last year in the inaugural season as well.

The Tech Mahindra Global Chess League is the world’s first and largest official franchise chess league and is the only league in pro sports with a joint team format, featuring both men and women players in the same team. It is a joint initiative with the International Chess Federation (FIDE).