Mumbai: He might be unaware of everything about chess – like it helps prevent Alzheimer, exercises both sides of the brain, increases one’s creativity and improves memory. But one thing is very clear – winning every game matters the most for youngest player Arham Mehta.
Arham is among hundred players who assembled at World Trade Centre in Cuffe Parade for the EKA IIFL Mumbai International Chess Tournament, of three classical events, Under 13, Open and Grand Master, in the city. Arham is just six-years-old but he’s won his first game in this championship, ‘Arbiter Check Mate’ and calls attention of the official at the venue, while smiling at his opponent Ridhima Khanna after his 26-moves.
This is my first win and I am happy I have managed to open my scores,” says Arham while talking to Free Press Journal after his game. A resident of Ghatkopar, took liking to this 64-square game because his father and his uncle play as an option to avoid the Television. “I like the game,” is the only four-word statement Arham said when asked why Chess. Yes, for this baby of the championship, action speaks louder than words, as he won his first game in the third round.
Coming from a family of chartered accountants, father (Sandeep) and mother (Sujata), Arham does not have role models to fall back upon, but wants to be a chess champion. Acha Lagta Hai (I feel good) said the lad who played the oldest player of the tournament RK Gupta, who is 79-year-old, in his first round.
Incidentally, Gupta was sixyears- old when India got independence (born in 1941). “That uncle is big and he won, I will beat him in days to come,” cautions Arham. Chess has been taking over TV at home, in Mehta’s home, as Arham’s mother Sujata says, “Given a chance we will prefer chess for TV provided partners are available, Yes, to certain extent viewing TV has been reduced because of chess.
According to Sujata, Arham is very talkative but when it comes to sitting across the table while playing chess, it is action that this youngster seeks. He gets into round three and Arham is of the belief that he would make the most of it in this championship. “I might not win the title, but one thing is sure I will learn more about the game and make a mark in this championship. Maybe, in days to come, Arham could turn out to be one of the big names in Indian chess, and only time will tell.