For the love of Chess, Addicts give up alchol in Morottichal Village in Kerala. Meet the 60 year old Mr C. Unnikrishnan their saviour.

The idea of teaching the game of Chess cropped up quite accidentally. Sowing the Chess game seed in every Man in the village has certainly borne fruit.  Alcoholic Anonyms centres are struggling really hard to come up with creative and innovative ways to help the addicts, BUT this one has surely check-mated.

Unthinkable Chess therapy for Alcoholics and the flourishing illicit liquor brewing businessmen in the 60s and 70s  was adopted by the Men initially and soon this craze followed suit even with women and children.  He is fondly known as Maaman – Uncle in Malayalam and is simply adored and respected by everyone. The villagers are not against drinking but ever since they learned the game and play regularly, the drinking habits are strictly under control.  They even have a Chess Association with Mr. Baby John as the President and regular tournaments are conducted. It is the first Chess Literate village in India.

Sunday Special.

Chess is the buzzword in this village. All through the week it's a pleasant sight to see everyone including women and children play Chess whenever they feel like whether it is night or day.  One is in for a special treat on a Sunday at their home, where people start pouring in, in the wee hours of the morning, grab a place, play with anyone and this goes on and on says an ever-smiling Maaman’s wife.  The tree-lined streets are also crowded with chess matches happening and enough number watching.  Even the drivers and conductors sometimes stop and play a game or intently watch.