Championing the board to championing zero online toxicity

Online hate and negativity bothered him more than he could imagine, affecting his mental focus and well-being, critical to competing in chess championships at an International level.

The newly crowned champion of the FIDE Swiss 2023 World Chess Championship and the Vugar Gashimov Memorial Chess tournament 2023 at Azerbaijan, who has made India proud, not just once but several times, took action to navigate the complexities of online interactions better, when he realised the impact of negative, judgemental comments and trolling on his life, which also indirectly affected his game.

“The toxicity online restrained me from sharing my life freely and experimenting professionally. If I didn’t perform well, I used to get criticised for my life choices. If I was trying out something new, people told me to stick to chess. It doesn’t have to be this way anymore I believe. We wouldn’t tolerate someone being rude to us in real life, why should we then put up with it in the online world? ”he says.

This introspection led him to Wildr, the world’s first AI-based, troll-free social networking app. Here, Vidit found a supportive community that resonated with his journey, allowing him to connect meaningfully with fans and chess enthusiasts during FIDE and World cup as he posted regularly about his matches and recaps.

“Every post on Wildr during tournaments was like a conversation with close friends. The encouragement and love I received were not only uplifting but also empowering. I didn’t feel any inhibitions while posting, because I knew I wasn’t going to be judged on my every move. I felt more at ease to be myself”, says Vidit.

The positive environment on Wildr played a significant role in helping Vidit maintain his mental peace, crucial for his rigorous training and tournaments. He has now also officially partnered with Wildr to further their cause of zero online toxicity and cyber abuse.

According to a 2022 report, ‘Cyberbullying in Plain Sight’, by cybersecurity firm McAfee, India is on top position for cyberbullying. It states that “85% of Indian children have been cyberbullied”, the highest globally.

“Cyberbullying in India reaches alarming highs as more than 1 in 3 kids face cyber racism, sexual harassment, and threats of physical harm as early as at the age of 10 making India the #1 nation for reported cyberbullying in the world,” says Gagan Singh, Chief Product Officer, McAfee in the report.

The CEO of Wildr, Vidit Drolia, who seeks to bring about a revolution in the world of social media, says, “In a world filled with noise, Wildr aspires to be a sane, kind corner on the internet where real people share real stories, cutting through the superficiality and toxicity that breaks a person’s spirit over time. Vidit Gujrathi’s experience on Wildr exemplifies the power of positive social spaces, reinforcing that true victory goes hand in hand with a supportive community. His victory feels personal.”

To those facing toxicity and abuse online, especially young players, Vidit’s wise counsel revolves around creating a positive and conducive environment. He emphasizes the importance of choosing role models carefully and surrounding oneself with a strong, supportive circle, echoing the teachings of Buddha on the importance of a like-minded community.

Vidit advises, “Choose your role models and online influences wisely. Your circle or ‘sangha’ shapes your thought process. It’s crucial to insulate yourself from negativity. I remember, Vishwanathan Anand didn’t read anything online or in print for 6 months before he played the World championship. He lived in a bubble to safeguard his mind space.”

Sharing his mantra of overcoming moments of self-doubt, he says, “Sometimes like losing a gold medal last minute can be a crushing feeling, but I have found solace through the spiritual anchor of my life. The teachings of my Guru, Om Swami have helped me stay course.”

In navigating the mental intensity of chess, Vidit emphasizes the power of a disciplined meditation practice and the importance of saying no to all distractions, a lesson learned through experience. In his words, “it’s the price you pay willingly if you want to invest your energy in something big in life and be successful.”

As he gears up for Candidates 2024, the last step before playing for World championship, he approaches the challenge with a holistic mindset and working on all aspects of his fitness, while also enjoying the journey to the top.

“This is the dream of every aspiring chess player, a lot is at stake. It’s not going to be easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is. I am aware that it will be like a bull fight and every ounce of my strength will be tested, so I have to be prepared for anything. Having said that, I also want to keep living a fulfilling life. In the end, it’s important to be kind, humble and happy during this journey. In fact, that’s a key element I will be mindful of,” says Vidit with a disarming smile.

Vidit Gujrathi’s hero’s journey from a chess enthusiast in Nashik to a world champion is not just about mastering 64 squares; it’s a story of resilience, of an indomitable spirit and the power of community, kindness and love.