By Atreyo Mukhopadhyay in Goa
There is a place at the FIDE World Cup venue in Goa worth dropping by. It’s called the Fan Zone, not because of the snacks and beverages one can buy, but for the live commentary by experts that makes complex matters appear simpler. One doesn’t become a pundit by being there, but can comprehend in straightforward terms what’s going on between the players.
This is done by Chess.com and ChessBase India, platforms well known the world over. Ticket-holders have access to this area, where Grandmasters like Sahaj Grover and Harshit Raja are among the panellists who narrate and explain the developments over the 64 squares. Sagar Shah and Amruta Mokal anchor the sessions and make things understandable for those who may not be well acquainted with the intricacies.
Sample these: “There is Lionel Messi waiting out there, but not used,” is one comment to explain the position of a piece well placed to cause havoc yet remaining inactive. “These are the pawn stars that can become so decisive,” is said of the smallest elements on a chessboard which at times assume gigantic stature. There is wit, common sense and everything else that strikes a connection with onlookers.
Talking about footfall, it’s negligible. Even on weekends, the maximum attendance was 20 or thereabouts. That can be a discouraging sight from the point of view of those behind this initiative, who show all the boards with a 15-minute delay. The broadcast production is professional and the commentary top-class. Imagine Grandmasters and other experts talking about the game. They also get special guests. Over the days, Koneru Humpy, Peter Leko and Anish Giri have been among those offering insights and sharing anecdotes.
It’s not about how many turn up. Only ticket-holders and those accredited can get in. There is a strict security protocol in place. For those who are there, it should count as a valuable experience. Chess is not simple. Even for those aware of the technicalities, what happens at this level can be difficult to grasp. These commentators simplify things, explaining what could have happened and why, what should happen and why.
There is also a space with couches and screens for spectators to relax and soak it in. There are chessboards where they can play, and that number has been noticeable. At almost any given point, one can find curious onlookers trying out the moves happening in the playing arena or simply engaging in a game with friends.
What the Fan Zone essentially does is remove the misconception that chess is dull or grim. It’s impossible for laypersons to understand situations from board positions alone because it’s a specialised subject that requires years of study. Once here, these things appear simpler. And it’s not easy to make a complex matter approachable. That’s why the Fan Zone is the place to be if one is in Goa for this World Cup.
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