This Is What Anand Mahindra Is Gifting To Chess Prodigy R Praggnanandhaa’s Parents

Indian chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa’s World Cup journey came to an end without the desired prize. However, the consensus among experts is that his ground-breaking achievements would permanently alter the chess environment in the nation.

In a dramatic tie-breaker match against first-rank Magnus Carlsen, the Indian grandmaster took second place in the Baku competition. Their previous meetings resulted in draws, which prepared the audience for a thrilling conclusion on Thursday. Experts have emphasized Praggnanandhaa’s fortitude and exceptional skill throughout the competition. Positive feedback and words of support flooded in, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi offering his congratulations for the young champion’s “remarkable” performance and his unrelenting fight.

Described as “tectonic and seminal” by those in the know, his achievements are nothing short of spectacular. Pragg, as he’s affectionately known, charted an extraordinary course by conquering the world’s second and third-ranked players to secure a spot in the World Cup final—a feat unparalleled since the legendary Vishwanathan Anand’s title win in 2002.

While people were giving him congratulations, Anand Mahindra took the initiative to gift a stylish electronic car to his parents.

Anand Mahindra gifts an electronic car to Praggnanandhaa’s parents

Anand Mahindra’s recent selfless gesture of kindness has garnered a lot of attention on social media. The tale began when people on the internet, especially on X (previously Twitter), urged Mahindra to give the young chess prodigy, Praggnanandhaa, a Mahindra Thar. Needless to say, an idea that quickly attracted attention and soon became a reality.

In response to these pleas, Mahindra tweeted about his plan, saying,

“Appreciate your sentiment, Krishlay, & many, like you, have been urging me to gift a Thar to @rpragchess But I have another idea … I would like to encourage parents to introduce their children to Chess & support them as they pursue this cerebral game (despite the surge in popularity of video games!). It’s an investment in a better future for our planet, just like EVs.”

He further engaged Rajesh Jejurikar, the Executive Director and CEO of Mahindra & Mahindra, by tagging him in the tweet and inviting his perspective on the matter. He added

“And so, I think we should gift an XUV4OO EV to the PARENTS of @rpragchess. Shrimati Nagalakshmi & Shri Rameshbabu, who deserve our gratitude for nurturing their son’s passion & for giving him their untiring support. What do you think, @rajesh664?”

Appreciate your sentiment, Krishlay, & many, like you, have been urging me to gift a Thar to @rpragchess
But I have another idea …
I would like to encourage parents to introduce their children to Chess & support them as they pursue this cerebral game (despite the surge in… https://t.co/oYeDeRNhyh pic.twitter.com/IlFIcqJIjm

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) August 28, 2023

Within a few hours after it was posted, this post received over 51,000 views and 1,600 likes. Not only this, but the comment section, too, has become a platform for enthusiasts to share their perspectives and expressions.

One commentator praised it as a “super cool approach” to inspire parents and serve as an inspiration for young people. Another applauded the act for properly lining up with upcoming investments and fostering children’s interests. Needless to say, the response to Anand Mahindra’s car gift to Praggnanandhaa’s parents has been overwhelmingly positive.

What do you think about Anand Mahindra’s move?