The story of Kerala's Marottichal, the chess village of India

In the world of chess, the name Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa has emerged as a beacon of brilliance and the promise of a bright future. This prodigious Indian chessmaster made history in 2018 by achieving the title of the youngest Grandmaster in chess at the remarkable age of 12, garnering attention and admiration from the global chess community. His silver medal win in the FIDE Chess World Cup has become an inspiring tale in the world of chess.

With Praggnanandhaa's meteoric rise in the game of chess on the international stage, there has been a surge of interest in this strategic sport among people. Thus, we bring you the extraordinary story of an Indian village where chess is not just a pastime; it is a way of life. Read on to discover more about this remarkable community.

Welcome to the Chess Village of India


Nestled amidst the lush green landscapes of Kerala, India, lies Marottichal, an unassuming village. At first glance, it may not strike you as a chess hub. However, over the years, it has carved out a distinctive identity for itself as a chess haven.

The chess renaissance in Marottichal traces its roots back to the early 1960s, a period when the village was grappling with rampant alcohol addiction, leading to severe societal issues. In a quest to tackle this problem, a local tea shop owner named C. Unnikrishnan, fondly known as Unni sir, decided to introduce chess as a wholesome and constructive alternative—a game he had personally learned and grown passionate about.

Unni sir took it upon himself to introduce chess to the people of Marottichal, firmly believing that this intellectually engaging game could divert their attention from the clutches of alcoholism towards a more meaningful pursuit. Armed with limited resources but an abundance of determination, he began imparting chess lessons to the villagers.

As the residents of Marottichal embraced chess, a remarkable transformation began to unfold. Instead of succumbing to the grip of addiction, they became engrossed in the intricate world of the 64-square chessboard. This chessboard became a symbol of hope and aspiration in their lives.

The impact of chess in Marottichal transcends the victories achieved on the board. It has served as a catalyst for profound social change, turning the village into a model of sobriety and intellectual pursuit. Families, once torn apart by addiction, now unite to play chess together, fostering stronger bonds and healthier lifestyles.

The story of Marottichal is a testament to the power of chess not only as a game of strategy but also as a force for positive change within a community. It's a village where the timeless pursuit of chess has transformed lives, offering a brighter and more hopeful future for its residents.