Udhayanidhi Stalin thanks Kamal Haasan, AR Rahman and Vignesh Shivan for their work on Chess Olympiad

The 44th International Chess Olympiad recently concluded in Chennai for which players and chess enthusiasts from across the world had gathered in large numbers. The event culminated on August 9 with a grand finale that comprised a series of events including a jugalbandi by percussionist Sivamani, violinist Rajhesh Vaidhya, keyboard player Stephen Devassy and flautist Naveen. A special show on Tamil Nadu's contribution to Indian freedom struggle was also staged on the occasion. The show was conceptualised and directed by Vignesh Shivan and had voice over by Kamal Haasan. Interestingly, the duo had earlier teamed up for the inaugural show that talked about the Tamil heritage.

Music director AR Rahman had composed the tune for the Chess Anthem, which was also directed by Vignesh Shivan. Udhayanidhi Stalin, took to his social media handle to thank everyone for their contribution. In a series of tweets, Udhayanidhi wrote, "Amidst a conflict situation, India was given the opportunity to conduct this mega event. Through his efforts our chief minister @mkstalin seized the golden opportunity and brought the event to Tamil Nadu. I thank him for his untiring motivation & guidance throughout the event. At this moment, I sincerely thank @FIDE_chess president @advorkovich & deputy president @vishy64theking @DrSK_AICF president & @Bharatchess64 secretary @aicfchess for giving us the opportunity to organise this great event in Tamil Nadu."

He then thanked the team that put together the special shows on Tamil heritage. "Last but not least, I express my happiness & deep gratitude to Ulaga Nayagan @ikamalhaasan sir, Isai Puyal @arrahman sir & director @VigneshShivN & team, @AditiShankarofl for their contribution in inaugural & valedictory ceremonies. I thank for their hard work & support (sic)." Aditi Shankar, who made her debut with Viruman, featured as one of the dancers in the Chess promotional video.

The Kaathuvaakula Rendu Kaadhal director replied to Udhayanidhi Stalin saying, " thank you sooo much sir for the great opportunity and the big acknowledgement 😇🙏🏼 For all the great vision you had and the great support you extended to pull off an event in this scale speaks volumes about your intention and interest in putting TN on the world Map 😇👍🏼 (sic)."