‘Humbling, unforgettable gesture’: Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand recalls the best Gujarat Thali he had with PM Narendra Modi, extends birthday wishes

“When I look back on my journey in chess, certain memories stand out — not just from the board, but from life itself,” Anand wrote. “One of those moments came from Gujarat. Years ago, when I played in Ahmedabad during the National Championship, I had a simple ritual: treating myself to a Gujarati Thali. It was something I cherished, a small joy outside the game. I never imagined that one day, this little detail of my life would be remembered and celebrated by none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji.”

Anand recalled how, upon hearing about his love for Gujarati food, Modi spontaneously suggested they go out for a meal.

“I still recall the moment when, in the middle of a casual conversation, I happened to mention my fondness for Gujarati Thalis to Narendra Modi ji. When he heard this, he immediately smiled and said, ‘Oh, okay, then let’s go.’ Without any formality, he took me to the State Guest House, where we sat down and enjoyed a delicious Gujarati Thali together. He even added warmly, ‘I want to give you the best Thali you can remember.’ For me, it was a humbling and unforgettable gesture,” Anand wrote.

Reflecting on the Prime Minister’s personality, Anand praised Modi’s ability to strike a rare balance between professionalism and approachability.

“What has always inspired me is the balance he brings. On one hand, he is efficient, disciplined, and deeply professional, with his entire team working like clockwork. On the other hand, he is approachable, warm, and often light-hearted — someone who can crack a joke and make you feel at ease. That rare blend of vision and humanity is what makes him truly remarkable.”

Anand also acknowledged Modi’s impact on the chess world. He highlighted a unique initiative that was introduced at the Prime Minister’s suggestion, the Chess Olympiad Torch Relay.

“I also saw his innovative spirit in the world of chess itself. It was Prime Minister Modi ji who suggested that the Chess Olympiad, though separate from the Olympics, should also have its own torch relay. It was a revolutionary idea, and for the very first time, a torch ceremony was introduced to the Chess Olympiad. Today, it has become a proud tradition in our sport, one that the entire world embraces. Soon, chess leaders from across the globe gathered in Delhi for the handover ceremony, a legacy born out of his vision.”

Concluding his heartfelt tribute, Anand wrote, “For me, Narendra Modi ji is not just a leader of India, but someone who inspires with both heart and mind. Whether through a simple Gujarati meal or a global chess tradition, he leaves behind lessons of humility, innovation, and warmth.”

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When I look back on my journey in chess, certain memories stand out — not just from the board, but from life itself. One of those moments came from Gujarat. Years ago, when I played in Ahmedabad during the National Championship, I had a simple ritual: treating… pic.twitter.com/qR2STuwI7H

— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) September 17, 2025

The post touched several hearts, garnering a deluge of reactions. “The grand master just knocked his own king,” a user wrote. “Thanks for sharing. These stories tells us the human side of things we tend to forget,” another user commented.

“Immense respect, love and gratitude for our beloved Prime Minister Modiji,” a third user reacted.