Viswanathan Anand, India’s legendary chess grandmaster and five-time world champion, left audiences stunned as he showcased his dance moves to Amitabh Bachchan’s iconic song Main Hoon Don from the 1978 blockbuster Don. Known worldwide for his calm, methodical approach to chess and his sharp strategic mind, Anand’s fun and energetic performance revealed an entirely different, more playful side of his personality. The sight of the 55-year-old maestro grooving to the beat was a delightful surprise for fans who have long admired him for his intellectual brilliance rather than his dancing prowess.
As the music played, Anand confidently matched the rhythm with effortless moves, proving that his skills are not limited to chess alone. His spontaneous and joyful performance electrified the atmosphere, drawing loud cheers and thunderous applause from the audience, who couldn’t get enough of this rare glimpse into the chess icon’s lively persona. His ability to let loose and embrace the moment resonated with fans, further cementing his status as one of India’s most beloved sporting legends.
Despite being a towering figure in the world of chess, Anand has always maintained a down-to-earth and approachable nature. His legacy extends beyond his achievements on the board—he continues to inspire and mentor younger generations, ensuring that Indian chess remains a dominant force on the global stage.
In 2019, Anand was honored with the rare opportunity to ring the iconic bell at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens before India’s historic first-ever Day-Night Test match against Bangladesh. The moment was a symbolic crossover of two great sports, as one of India’s most celebrated minds was recognized in the heart of the country’s cricketing arena. It was a fitting tribute to Anand’s legendary status and his contribution to Indian sports as a whole.
Beyond competitive chess, Anand actively fosters a sense of unity and mentorship among India’s rising chess stars. Earlier this year, he opened the doors of his home to host a special Pongal gathering, inviting some of the country’s brightest young talents, including R Praggnanandhaa, reigning world champion D Gukesh, and Vidit Gujrathi. The celebration was filled with warmth, laughter, and traditional South Indian delicacies, showcasing Anand’s deep connection with the next generation of chess prodigies. The event also highlighted his commitment to nurturing young talent, ensuring that they not only excel in the game but also form strong bonds with their peers.
On January 16, Anand took to social media to share a heartwarming video capturing highlights from the Pongal celebration. The clip featured Vidit Gujrathi expressing his joy at visiting Anand’s home for the first time, as well as his hope that this Pongal breakfast would become an annual tradition. The video quickly gained traction among fans, who were delighted to see the grandmaster enjoying moments of camaraderie with his fellow players.
In addition to his chess and mentorship activities, Anand recently demonstrated his acting chops in a humorous advertisement alongside D Gukesh. The ad cleverly played on the generational gap between the two chess stars, with Anand representing the traditional, methodical approach, while Gukesh embodied the fast-paced, social media-savvy "Gen Alpha" mindset. The contrast between Anand’s old-school wisdom and Gukesh’s modern quirks provided plenty of laughs, particularly in a scene where Gukesh excitedly revealed his plan to get a tattoo of the famous King E5 move, leaving Anand amused and slightly bewildered. The ad showcased Anand’s willingness to embrace new experiences and connect with younger audiences in a lighthearted way.
Despite having conquered the world of chess multiple times, Anand continues to surprise and delight fans with his ever-evolving personality. Whether it’s dancing to Bollywood classics, fostering young talent, or taking on fun-filled acting roles, he remains a dynamic and engaging figure. His ability to balance competitive excellence with joy, humor, and humility makes him a truly endearing personality, proving that a grandmaster’s brilliance isn’t confined to the chessboard alone. Anand’s legacy is not just about victories but also about the way he continues to inspire, entertain, and bring people together through his passion for chess and life itself.
