The online hate and negativity bothered him more than he thought, affecting his mental focus and well-being, which was vital to competing in chess championships at the international level.
The newly crowned champions of the FIDE Swiss 2023 World Chess Championship and the Vugar Gashimov Memorial Chess Tournament 2023 in Azerbaijan, who have made India proud not once but many times, realized that they had to learn how to better navigate the complexities of online interactions. Have taken action for. Negative, critical comments and trolling had an impact on his life, which indirectly affected his game as well.
“Online toxicity kept me from sharing my life freely and experimenting professionally. If I didn’t perform well, I was criticized for my life choices. If I tried something new, When I was playing, people used to ask me to stick to chess. It is my belief that this should not happen anymore. In real life we would not tolerate anyone being rude towards us, then why should we do it in the online world. Bear?” he says.
This introspection led him to Wilder, the world’s first AI-based, troll-free social networking app. Here, Vidit found a supportive community that matched his journey, allowing him to meaningfully connect with fans and chess enthusiasts during the FIDE and World Cups as he regularly posted updates of his matches and recaps. Used to post about.
“Every post on Wilder during the tournament was like a conversation with close friends. The encouragement and love I received was not only encouraging, but empowering. I didn’t feel any hesitation when posting, because I knew I wouldn’t be judged. At my every step. I felt more comfortable in myself”, says Vidit.
The positive environment at Wilder played a vital role in helping Vidit maintain his mental calm, which is vital for his rigorous training and tournaments. Now they have officially partnered with Wilder to further the cause of zero online toxicity and cyber abuse.
According to cyber security firm McAfee’s 2022 report ‘Cyberbullying in Plain Sight’, India ranks top in terms of cyberbullying. It said “85% of Indian children have been victims of cyberbullying”, the highest globally.
Gagan says, “Cyberbullying has reached alarming levels in India, with more than 1 in 3 children facing cyber racism, sexual harassment and threats of physical harm by the age of 10, making India one of the worst in the world. Has become the number 1 country in terms of cyberbullying.” Singh, chief product officer at McAfee, reports.
Vidit Drolia, CEO of Wilder, who wants to revolutionize the world of social media, says, “In a world full of noise, Wilder aspires to be a wiser, kinder corner of the Internet where real people share real stories , strips away the superficiality and toxicity that breaks down a person’s spirit over time. Vidit Gujarati’s experience at Wilder exemplifies the power of positive social spaces, reinforcing that true victory is a supportive “Moving along with the community. Their victory feels personal.”
For those experiencing online toxicity and abuse, especially young players, Vidit’s wise advice revolves around creating a positive and conducive environment. He emphasizes the importance of carefully choosing role models and surrounding yourself with a strong, supportive circle, reiterating the Buddha’s teachings on the importance of like-minded community.
Vidit advises, “Choose your role models and online influences wisely. Your circle or ‘sangha’ shapes your thought process. It is important to protect yourself from negativity. I remember, Vishwanathan Anand told me 6 months ago He hadn’t read anything online or in print until he played the World Championships. He stayed in a bubble to protect his mind.”
Sharing his mantra of overcoming moments of self-doubt, he says, “Sometimes losing the gold medal at the last minute can be a crushing feeling, but I found solace through the spiritual anchor of my life The teachings of my guru, Om Swami, have helped me stay the course.”
In understanding the mental intensity of chess, Vidit emphasizes the power of disciplined meditative practice and the importance of saying no to all distractions, a lesson learned through experience. In his words, “This is the price you willingly pay if you want to invest your energy in something big in life and succeed.”
As he prepares for Candidates 2024, the last step before playing for the World Championships, he is approaching the challenge with a holistic mindset and working on all aspects of his fitness, as well as peak Are also enjoying the journey till.
“This is every aspiring chess player’s dream, there is so much at stake. It won’t be easy, but nothing worthwhile is. I know it will be like a bullfight and will test my every strength, so I have to be ready for anything. Having said that, I also want to live a full life. Finally, it is important to remain kind, polite, and happy during this journey. In fact, this is a major element that I will take care of,” says Vidit with a disarming smile.
Vidit Gujarati’s protagonist’s journey from chess hobbyist to world champion in Nashik is not just about mastering the 64 squares; It is a story of resilience, indomitable spirit and the power of community, kindness and love.
