Veteran Odisha chess player and administrator K D Pillai passed away after prolonged illness at his VSS Nagar residence here today. He was 77 and survived by his wife, son and daughter. Pillai dominated the 64-square-game for more than two decades, winning the state senior title 11 times between 1960 and 1982.

A contemporary of Manual Aaron, Pillai also won a number of all-India open tournaments. Despite being a state government employee, Pillai devoted a lot of time and effort for the promotion of chess in the state. He served as a top-brass office-bearer of Odisha State Chess Association for many years.

Pillai groomed many youngsters, imparting free coaching. ``I owe a lot to Pillai sir for being a positive influence in my career,`` said IM Padmini Rout.