Fri Dec 13 06:26:12 UTC 2024: ## Documentary to Showcase the Rise of India’s Young Chess Stars
**Singapore** – A new documentary film, “Candidates,” will chronicle the remarkable rise of India’s young chess prodigies, offering an unprecedented look into their journeys and sacrifices. The film, produced by Dopamine Media in association with ChessBase India and Camera and Shots, is expected to be released in March or April of next year.
The documentary follows several young chess players, including D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Vaishali, who have captured international attention. Filmmaker Prashant Raj, who conceived the project after a suggestion from a friend, began filming during the 2022 Chess Olympiad in Chennai. The initial goal was to document the potential for an Indian player to reach the Candidates Tournament; Gukesh’s subsequent qualification for the World Championship against Ding Liren became an unexpected highlight.
“Candidates” offers more than just tournament coverage. It delves into the personal lives of these young players, showcasing the dedication, sacrifices, and support from their families that have propelled their success. The film covers approximately 10 tournaments, including the Candidates Tournament, the Global Chess League, and the 2024 Olympiad, providing an intimate perspective on their journeys from childhood to grandmaster status. Raj describes the film as a story of “kids who sacrifice their childhood and parents who often sacrifice their careers,” highlighting the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of the chess world.
The 90-120 minute documentary aims for a global release via OTT platforms and is intended to showcase the breadth of Indian sporting talent beyond cricket. With co-executive producer Sagar Shah of ChessBase India, “Candidates” promises a unique perspective on the emergence of India’s young chess stars and their impact on the global chess scene.
First Piper 