Watch: Anupam Kher calls Samay Raina a 'Genius' in chess and comedy

Veteran Bollywood actor Anupam Kher has gone all out in praising chess grandmaster and comedian Samay Raina, describing him as a rare "genius" who excels in multiple arenas.

In a recent interview with the Times of India, Kher shared his admiration for Raina's unique blend of strategic brilliance on the chessboard and sharp wit in stand-up comedy, calling him "one of the greatest talents" he has encountered.

Kher, known for his roles in films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and The Kashmir Files, highlighted Raina's journey from a chess prodigy to a popular online content creator. "I genuinely feel he is a genius. Samay Raina is not just a chess player; he's a performer who captivates audiences effortlessly," Kher said. He recounted watching Raina's streams and comedy sets, noting how the 24-year-old's ability to juggle high-stakes chess matches with hilarious banter sets him apart.

Raina, who became India's 79th Grandmaster in 2024, has built a massive following on YouTube with his live chess streams that often feature celebrity guests and improvised comedy. Kher's endorsement adds to a growing list of admirers, including fellow celebrities who have appeared on Raina's channel.

Cross-verifying reports from other outlets reveal similar enthusiasm. India Today noted Kher's comments during a promotional event, where he emphasized Raina's potential to bridge gaming, sports, and entertainment. "In a world obsessed with specialists, Samay is a polymath," Kher added, drawing parallels to his own multifaceted career in acting and direction.Meanwhile, Hindustan Times quoted Kher praising Raina's resilience after controversies, like his 2024 standoff with the All India Chess Federation, which led to a temporary ban but ultimately boosted his public profile.

This isn't Kher's first dive into praising young talents. Just last year, he lauded comedian Munawar Faruqui for his raw energy, but his take on Raina stands out for its focus on intellectual depth. Raina, who won the National Chess Championship multiple times before turning to content creation, now boasts over 5 million YouTube subscribers. His streams have featured chess legends like Magnus Carlsen and Viswanathan Anand, blending instruction with entertainment.

Kher's words come at a time when Raina is expanding into live tours and potential TV projects. "He's redefining what it means to be a modern genius-brains, humor, and heart," Kher concluded. As Bollywood continues to intersect with digital creators, endorsements like this signal a new era of cross-industry collaborations.

Fans on social media erupted with excitement, with many calling for a Kher-Raina chess match or comedy special. Whether Raina responds with a stream roasting the actor remains to be seen, but one thing's clear: Anupam Kher has officially crowned him a prodigy worth watching.