Visakhapatnam carrom enthusiast uses AI to popularise sport

Visakhapatnam-based carrom enthusiast Dr Neeraj Sampathy has used artificial intelligence to create an interactive video presentation highlighting the depth and skill involved in carrom. The initiative aims to change perceptions and attract new audiences to the traditional board game.

Hyderabad: Dr. Neeraj Sampathy, a passionate carrom enthusiast from Visakhapatnam, has turned to artificial intelligence to create an innovative video presentation aimed at popularizing the traditional board game and challenging common misconceptions about it.

What began as an experiment with AI technology has evolved into a comprehensive educational tool. Dr. Sampathy used four videos from his YouTube channel, “carrompassion,” to create a 15-slide presentation, with each slide lasting five seconds, highlighting the key aspects of the sport.

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“Frankly, I found it can be really interesting for those who are new to the sport or even don’t know anything about it. It essentially explains the nuances of the sport and, perhaps, changes the perception that carrom is not just about putting the coins into the pocket,” Dr. Sampathy told Telangana Today.

He believes carrom is a significant character-building activity. “The sport is one of the biggest character-building tools. For instance, even in a mind game like chess, once your mind takes a decision, you can make a move. In carrom, you get only 10 seconds to spot the position of carrommen on the board, decide what to play, go through your pre-shot routine, and execute the stroke—all while simultaneously processing strategy and being aware of the score and board number. That is not easy, especially when facing a tense match situation,” explained the carrom promoter.

Dr. Sampathy emphasized that carrom involves considerable skill and strategy, contrary to what casual observers might assume. However, he clarified that his video presentation is not a coaching manual but rather a showcase of the sport’s aesthetic appeal, designed to attract newcomers.

The presentation, titled “The 4 Disciplines for Carrom Mastery,” includes interactive features allowing viewers to pause and read about the various skills required to master the game. Though not yet posted on social media platforms, Dr. Sampathy believes it will be a game-changer in reaching previously untapped audiences.

“I sincerely believe this video presentation will spread awareness to hitherto unexplored audiences,” he concluded.