International Chess Day 2022: How Did India’s Chaturang Become Chess?

Chess is an ancient Indian game which was known as Chaturang. But do you know how Chaturanga became so popular as Chess worldwide? Let’s know its history.

Every year on July 20, people worldwide celebrate International Chess Day. On this date, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) is thought to have been established. 

On this day, chess tournaments are staged in various locations. Chess is an entertaining game where two players compete to defeat each other’s pawns by using various strategies.

Chess is referred to as a brain-sharpening game since it requires players to use a lot of cognitive processing power. In English, chess is known as chess. 

You’ve probably played chess before, but have you ever wondered about this ancient Indian game’s origins? We explain the history of chess today in honor of International Chess Day.

India Gave ‘Chess’ To The World

India gave the world this game, which is played on squares that are colored black and white. This game dates back to ancient India. 

The Bhavishya Purana contains an account of Chaturanga. The Harappan culture also has the remnants of Chaturanga. 

However, its promotion became more widespread and existed during the Gupta era in the sixth century. As a result, many people also believe that this game first appeared in the sixth century. 

It was known as Chaturanga at the time, and it was played on a board with 64 squares. The brain was employed for the first time in this game.

At the time, this game had a war format with infantry, cavalry, an elephant, a chariot, knights, rooks, and bishops, among other military units. Following India, the Parsi nations started to enjoy this game. 

By occurring in nations like Europe, China, Russia, Spain, and so on, it gradually spread throughout the entire planet. 

It had some modifications as a result of the promotion. It was known by several names in various locations.

How Did Chaturanga Become Chess?

When the game of chaturanga entered France, it received a new name: “Echecs,” which translates to “to lose.” In English, aches came to be known as “chess.”

The Fédération Internationale Des Echecs, or FIDE, is the organization that currently governs chess on a global scale. 

FIDE is also referred to as the World Chess Federation or the International Chess Federation. Chess matches are organized globally by FIDE, and the victor is given the title of Grand Master.