In Focus by The Hindu In Focus-Weekend | What Happened to Daniel Naroditsky in the Online Chess Era?
Nov 23, 2025
Featuring Viswanathan Anand, a five-time World Chess Champion, and Dr. Kenneth Regan, an expert in cheat detection, the discussion dives into the changes online chess has undergone since the pandemic. Anand highlights how online platforms have revolutionized the game, while Regan explains the statistical methods for spotting cheating. Young player Krish Rastogi shares his personal struggles with addiction to fast-paced formats and offers insights on overcoming compulsive habits. Together, they explore the tension, suspicion, and the evolving landscape of chess in the digital age.
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Streamer Confronts Public Accusations Live
- Daniel Naroditsky calmly taught thousands on stream while addressing cheating accusations live.
- He said accusations made people assume the worst whenever he did well.
Internet Removed Friction From Chess
- The pandemic removed friction and made it trivial to find chess partners any time zone.
- Viswanathan Anand noted this massively expanded opportunities and experimentation in variants.
Teen Finds Chess As Pandemic Lifeline
- Krish Rastogi described how chess became his lifeline in ninth grade during COVID-19 lockdowns.
- He played daily to fill time and found online chess addictive.
