The story of Kerala's Marottichal, the chess village of India

Marottichal, a village in Kerala, India, has become known as a chess haven after a local tea shop owner introduced the game in the 1960s as a way to combat alcohol addiction. The game has since become a way of life in the village, uniting families and fostering social change. The impact of chess in Marottichal goes beyond the victories achieved on the board, serving as a catalyst for a more meaningful and hopeful future for its residents.

How did Marottichal become the Chess Village of India?

The Incredible Story of a Village in Kerala That Gave up Alcohol For Chess! - The Better India

It was chess that saved the village rich in alcoholism and illegal gambling - GIGAZINE

No Story Left Behind (@OfficialNSLB) / X

Marottichal: The Chess Addicted Village of India

Marottichal, Kerala : The Chess Village of India

Small Town Talks - Marottichal, a secluded village in Thrissur District Of Kerala, South India. About 50 years ago,the villagers were caged in the strong desires of Alcoholism 🥃and Gambling. This lead

Chess-Playing Presidents, Kasparov's Robots, And A Treatment For Alcoholism

Marottichal, the Chess literate Village makes it to URF Asian Records

A Village That's Always Plotting Its Next Move

The Incredible Story of a Village in Kerala That Gave up Alcohol For Chess! - The Better India

The Boy's Gambit: Inside the world of Nihal Sarin, a chess champion at the age of 10

Ujjain – Don't hold your breath