Bridge – an intellectual game
G.K. Sundaram, Chairman, Lakshmi Mills, enjoying a game of bridge with children at the R.S. Puram Club in the city on Saturday.To most of us bridge is just another card game like rummy or poker. But, there is something more to it. “It’s an intellectual game. A game for all age groups,” says nonagenarian G.K. Sundaram, Chairman, Lakshmi Mills Ltd., and the doyen of bridge in India.He says bridge is quite popular across the world. “Some call it an aristocratic game, and for the business community it is a game that exercises the brain.” Mr. Sundaram, who has been playing for over six decades, feels the game, however, has not caught the fancy of the people in India. “In India, the popularity level is very, very poor. To many it is gambling. But there are not much efforts taken to shed that image.”“If the game needs to grow, the clubs must come forward to encourage it. Currently, it is being played in only three or four clubs. It is time for the others to follow,” he says.Ramakrishnan of Salem, who is ranked 20th on the BBO (Bridge Base Online), says it is more charming, less time consuming and fairest of all games. “Bridge does not involve going to school or college – putting in hours of study, sweat and toil. It is a way of entertainment and recreation, a way of meeting new people and cultivating friendship. Playing the game for about 15 minutes a day helps you in refreshing and recharging your batteries.”
He says if parents encourage their children then bridge becomes a game.“In the U.S. it is being played in schools, and in Israel, it is part of university curriculum. They agree it has earned them positive results by way of improving education and communication skills, as much as 30 per cent to 40 per cent.”A textile technologist turned management consultant, Ramakrishnan, has presented an in-depth article of the game to President Pratibha Patil. He says about 11,000 players from all over the world assemble each day to play the game and make newer contacts at the drop of a hat. “I want it happening in India as well. I have placed a request to our President to see it as a game that can sharpen and smarten the children in the shortest time possible.”He says even an ageing player can be on a roll playing bridge.“It is a game that can help one ride the pleasure of performing as good as yesterday. Play the game and you will never want to give up.”
