Ananya Anand is an 8th standard student whose passion for mathematics and chess is truly inspiring. She is part of the Guinness World Records and Asia Book of Records as well. Here’s what Ananya had to say about her hobbies and interests, how her love towards Maths and Chess have helped her in life, her dream career, Tinkle, and more!

Hi Ananya! So firstly just give us a brief introduction of yourself. What are your likes and dislikes?

I really like chess, abacus, exercising, and books. One book I especially like is The Sketchbook of Wisdom by Vishal Khandelwal. Another book I love is The Psychology of Money. I also read motivational quotes on Twitter. Apart from this, I write too. I write stories and quotes, and I am working on a novel too. 

We see you have a host of achievements in the fields of mathematics and chess. What interests you the most about these fields?

When it comes to chess and abacus, their dimensions are different, but they’re both mental activities which open up a world of possibilities. Both of these have improved my problem-solving skills a lot. They have also taught me self-confidence and the value of time, making me more responsible. 

How did you come to develop an interest in abacus? How do you think it has helped you?

I joined classes for abacus, and found it really unique. It was very different from anything I was learning at school. My knowledge of abacus is helping me with Vedic maths and academic maths as well!

Similarly, how did you come to be interested in chess? And how has it helped you?

I joined chess classes, and also participated in a competition for the same, winning a trophy. I found it very interesting to play and wanted to learn more. Now I am learning from my chess mentor, Mr. Ajinke Pingale. Learning about the various tactics involved in chess has been very exciting. Chess has taught me to be more responsible. Every piece in chess is important in its own way, similar to the importance of different things in life.

You have also been working on your interests by participating in a number of competitions. What helps you stay motivated and how do you think these opportunities have benefited you?

Yes, I used to take part in online competitions as well, during lockdown. The support of my parents and teachers combined with my own practice has kept me motivated. Crops grow when fertile soil and sunlight are available. You can see this in similar terms!

You mentioned being a part of the Guinness World Records and Asia Book of Records. How does it feel to have these achievements?

I feel really proud of these achievements. I made it into the Guinness World Records in 2018 for taking part in the world’s largest mental arithmetic session conducted by Brainobrain Abacus Academy in Chennai. On receiving the certificate from the Guinness World Records, London, I felt really motivated too.

Have you ever thought about what you might want to do when you grow up? If yes, tell us about that.

I want to pursue an academic degree, and work towards a career in chess. I want to be a chess player and turn my passion into my career!

Who is your favourite Tinkle Toon and why? There are no wrong answers!

I read Tinkle often, mostly during vacations. And my favourite Toon is Suppandi, due to how fun it is to read his stories!

Do you have any tips for others of your age who might have similar interests as you, or might have something they’re really passionate about?

I would just like to ask them to always choose their passion and never drop it. I even wrote a quote along similar lines: practice is the amount of time you spend on something, and dedication is the number of days for which you work on it. Practice and dedication together can help you achieve your dreams!

Finally, if there’s anything else you’d like to say to us or to our readers, go ahead!

I just want to say that I want to keep reading more Tinkle. It is great that it’s now online too!

If you would like to be featured as one of our Little Achievers, write to us at tinklemail@ack-media.com with the subject line “Little Achievers” and a cover letter telling us why we should interview you. Send in your emails now!