Mysuru: S K Ananda Theertha, President of Mysore District Chess Association (MDCA) and former principal of SBRR Mahajana PU College, Jayalakshmipuram who had promoted many sportspersons especially chess players and cricketers in Mysuru passed away at his residence in Gokulam here on Monday.
If he came to know of any sportspersons facing difficulties he used to readily help them, even financially. Due to his assistance, many of them went on to represent state and even nationals. During his tenure as a Professor of Physics at Mahajana PU College, whenever he discovered promising sporting talents among his students, he used to bringing them to the notice of the management and ensure them free seats.
Former state chess champion Y G Vijayeendra said, “When it comes to chess, even a week before his death, he had conducted a state level chess tournament. He also financially assisted many promising chess players from the district. His contribution to cricket and chess is immense. During his career, he conducted more than 200 chess tournaments including national, state and district levels.”
R Ramesh Kumar (who is familiar as Richy), Senior Deputy Manager in J K Tyres who was the first captain of Mysuru Cricket Academy which was started by Ananda Theertha said, “It’s really unfortunate and a great loss to sporting fraternity. He used to identify talents and groom them. When I was studying in Maharaja PU College and scored my first century in the Mahajana Cup Pre University tournament, he noticed my talent and invited me to join Mahajana PU College which I accepted and joined for II PU.”
Kantharaj, Physical Education Director, SBRR Mahajana PU College said, “It’s a great loss to the people of Mysuru especially to the sportspersons. He promoted and uplifted many sportspersons in the district. He was instrumental in organising many sporting events in colleges and also established the Mysuru Cricket Academy to promote cricket in Mysuru.”
Krishnaiah, Director, Department of Physical Education, University of Mysore (UoM); C Krishna, former director, Department of Physical Education, UoM; Subramanyam, former convenor, Mysore Gymkhana; Vijaya Prakash, former Ranji player and selector; senior umpire and artist Rajgopal, lecturers, professors and sportspersons paid their last respect to sports patron. His last rites were held at Chirashanthidhama at Gokulam. He was 69 years old and leaves behind his wife Anusuya, son Mohan Krishna, daughter-in-law and a granddaughter.
