Mate in 3 study to Anand by Kramnik

Vishy Anand visited Pune on February 15th to inaugurate a chess training facility at PYC Gymkhana. While most VIPs would be satisfied with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a couple of photographs, Anand's love for chess pushed him to do more. He pulled out his phone to find a complex mate-in-three study to test the local youth. The puzzle proved so difficult that it attracted a serious group of experts, including Vidit Gujrathi (India's no. 3), three GMs, and over seven IMs, all of whom struggled to find the answer. Eventually, IM Prathamesh Mokal successfully solved it. This specific problem was sent to Anand by Vladimir Kramnik, and we are now inviting you to try and solve it yourself!

Out of nowhere, Vishy Anand began browsing his phone—an unusual move, given how disciplined he typically is about ignoring distractions during public appearances. It soon became clear that he wasn't distracted by texts or tweets; instead, he was searching for a sophisticated chess position to challenge the younger generation. Now, we want to put that same puzzle in front of you. It's White's turn to move and secure a mate in three. Do you think you can find the solution?
Moreover, now we would like you to think about this position. It’s White to play and Mate in 3. What do you think is the answer?

This particular study dates back to 1904, though the original composer remains unknown. What we do know is that Vladimir Kramnik, Anand's predecessor, was the one who shared this mate-in-three with him. If you're about to try it, keep in mind that Kramnik doesn't deal in simple puzzles—expect a real challenge!