Marottichal, a village in Kerala, India, has become known as a chess haven after a local tea shop owner introduced the game in the 1960s as a way to combat alcohol addiction. The game has since become a way of life in the village, uniting families and fostering social change. The impact of chess in Marottichal goes beyond the victories achieved on the board, serving as a catalyst for a more meaningful and hopeful future for its residents.