The Church put severe restrictions on music – no rhythm for instance because it makes the hips move. Indian music never had any restrictions – religious music (with rhythm) was on par with other forms of music.

I grew up playing chess which continued throughout school and college. At the intercollege competition, I faced my toughest challenge yet, Jayant Gokhale, who later became an International Master (IM). Needless to say, he destroyed me in no time. This made me realise that higher level chess is a serious business which requires working very…