Viswanathan Anand turns 50: Here are some lesser-known facts about the chess wizard

Viswanathan Anand not only excelled beyond expectations, but with his consistency over the years, he has earned a place among the all-time greats of the game. Here are some lesser-known facts about the soft-spoken champion.

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand celebrates after winning a tournament. (File Photo | EPS)

A casual photo of Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand during his younger days. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand playing with a visually handicapped person. His wife Aruna is also seen. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand with his trophies. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand receiving an award. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand receiving the Eagle Trophy and a cash award from then PM Rajiv Gandhi. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand with wife Aruna. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand playing against three competitors at a tournament held in Chennai. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand with his parents. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand presenting a trophy to the winners during a tournament. (File Photo | EPS)

Challenger Viswanathan Anand shakes hands with World Chess Champion Gary Kasparov from Russia as New York City Mayor Rudolph Guiliani looks on at the start of the first game in their best of 20 game match. (File Photo | AFP)

Then Tamil Nadu Governor PC Alexander presenting a gold medal to Viswanathan Anand on behalf of the government of Tamil Nadu. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand being felicitated by then Tamil Nadu CM Karunanidhi at a function held by the Tamil Nadu Chess Association. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand with wife Aruna at their wedding reception. (File Photo | EPS)

Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand riding a chariot from his home at Besant Nagar during his felicitation by the Tamil Nadu Chess Association. (File Photo | EPS)