Marottichal, a village in Kerala, India, has undergone a remarkable transformation, shaking off its tumultuous past as a hub for alcoholism and gambling. Today, it is hailed as the “Chess Village of India,” with the majority of its 6,000 residents proficient in the game.

This change began in the late 1980s when local resident Charaliyil Unnikrishnan introduced chess to the villagers. At the time, the community struggled with addiction, poverty, and neglect, with families torn apart by the destructive grip of alcohol. Determined to create a better future, Unnikrishnan encouraged villagers to leave behind harmful habits and turn to chess, an ancient game symbolising strategy and focus.

The introduction of chess unified Marottichal. Families once devastated by addiction began gathering around chessboards, rebuilding their lives through competition and camaraderie. Over 4,500 residents are believed to be skilled in the game, and Marottichal has produced numerous competitive players, including prodigy Gowrishankar Jayaraj. This teenager is ranked among India’s top 600 chess players and aspires to join the ranks of the nation’s grandmasters.

The benefits of chess in Marottichal extend far beyond the board. The village’s rebirth serves as an inspiring testament to how communities can overcome destructive behaviours by fostering discipline, skill-building, and shared purpose.

Source: Aljazeera