Viswanathan Anand, the five-time world chess champion,  has made a notable debut in the IE 100 list of most powerful people in India in 2025,securing the 36th position. This recognition is a testament to his enduring impact on the world of chess and his influence beyond the sport. As the first Indian to become a grandmaster in 1988, Anand has been a trailblazer for Indian chess players and a role model for aspiring champions worldwide .

Viswanathan Anand is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential players in the history of chess ¹. Born on December 11, 1969, in Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu, India, Anand began learning chess from his mother at the age of six ¹. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming India’s first grandmaster in 1988.Anand’s impressive career is marked by numerous achievements ,Five-time World Chess Champion: Anand won the title in 2000, 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2012 

Two-time World Rapid Chess Champion Anand won the title in 2003 and 2017 

– Two-time Chess World Cup Champion, Anand won the title in 2000 and 2002 .

-Highest FIDE rating: Anand achieved a peak FIDE rating of 2817 in March 2011 .

Anand’s playing style is characterized by his rapid playing speed and his ability to adapt to different situations ¹. He is also known for his sportsmanship and his commitment to promoting chess in India .

Anand is the original world-beater from India on the battlefield of 64 squares. Semi-retired now, he has played a significant role in guiding India’s current generation of stars. Anand has mentored 18-year-old Gukesh, who became the youngest world champion in the sport recently. Anand also wields considerable power in global sport as the Deputy President of FIDE, the international governing body of chess.