Braving pregnancy

It is inspiriting to note that despite being pregnant, Grandmaster Harika Dronavalli has shown her determination and perseverance to compete in the 44th Chess Olympiad. Unlike other indoor sports, chess demands a lot of mental stamina, sharp focus and great anticipatory skills. Though Harika possesses all these qualities in abundance, it will be demanding and challenging for her to play the game, while enduring her gestation. In fact, in an interview, Harika said that tennis star Serena Williams, who won the Australian Open in 2017 while being eight weeks pregnant, is a huge source of inspiration to her. For little less than two weeks from now, Harika will also be carrying the weight of our nation to win medals and bring glory to it, braving her pregnancy. Advance wishes and all the very best to you Harika to realize the country's dreams!

Ranganathan Sivakumar,

Madipakkam, Chennai – 600 091