Category: Chess

What is it going to take for a 17-year-old to be able to become a grandmaster in chess? Most people find the thought of becoming a chess grandmaster at 17 almost unimaginable. Divya Deshmukh, a young Indian female chess players who was determined to achieve her goals, proved that passion, courage and discipline can help you reach even the most difficult of targets. She is now celebrated for being the youngest Indian grandmaster at chess. This title inspires children across India.

This blog will explore the Divya Deshmukh Chess journey, from being a child who moved pieces for fun to becoming one of India’s top female chess players. We’ll explore her journey, including the sacrifices that she made and the tournaments that she won, as well as the lessons she can teach young players.

Early Beginnings of Divya Deshmukh

Divya Deshmukh, born in December 2005 in Nagpur in Maharashtra. She was exposed to games from a young age, as most kids are. Chess, however, unusually caught her eye. Divya was not interested in a simple board game. She saw stories and patterns.

Around the age of 5, she began to play seriously. Imagine sitting at a table with experienced players and being that young. This is what makes her story so remarkable. When she began winning local and state age-group competitions, her talent was evident.

The Journey Toward Recognition

Divya Deshmukh didn’t play chess just for the fun of it. She had bigger dreams. She began competing at national tournaments, where she was up against stronger competitors. She became a more fierce competitor as she practiced, studied and faced bigger challenges.

She won several titles as a youngster. She won medals at the Asian Youth Chess Championships and brought them back to India. She gained confidence with each win and improved her skills.

How She Became the Youngest Indian Woman Grandmaster in Chess

Many people feel that the Grandmaster’s title is an impossible mountain to climb. Divya Deshmukh chess success was a result of her persistence. She needed to achieve the three Grandmaster standards as well as FIDE’s (the global chess association) required rating.

She made her breakthrough in 2021 at an international competition where she won a series of crucial victories. In 2022 and 2023, she was part of India’s women’s team for the Chess Olympiad at Chennai. Not only did her performance impress fans, but experts from around the world.

Divya became the youngest Indian woman to earn the prestigious title by 2024. Her remarkable feat placed her alongside legendary Indian chess players like Harika Dronavalli and HumpyKoneru.

Challenges Faced by Divya Deshmukh

• Behind the triumph, there were many challenges. Divya was often forced to sacrifice her social and personal life due to the long practice hours she put in. While most kids were enjoying their schooling, Divya was balancing academics and daily training.
• Her opponents were also older and more experienced, so she had to be on her game. She used this as motivation to review her games and learn from mistakes.
• The resilience of the player is what makes them a champion.

Lessons Young Players Can Learn

How can Divya Deshmukh Chess journey inspire children and chess lovers?

• Learn as you grow up. Divya did not stop learning after her first successes. She continued to study and improve.
• Consistency is essential- Train every day for a few hours to build focus and skills.
• Learn from losses- She treated every loss as a lesson.
• Keep your balance- She continued to study despite her hectic schedule and showed discipline that was beyond her years.

The lessons can be helpful for both children and adults who want to achieve big things in their lives.

Indian Female Chess Players Paving the Way

Divya was not India’s first shining star on the chess stage. She is following in the footsteps of legendary players like:

• Koneru Humming is the world’s champion Rapid Chess player and the second-female Grandmaster in India.
• Harika Dronavalli is known for her consistency in world championships.
• Tania Sahdev has been an inspiration to thousands of people with her skill on the board.

These women helped put Indian chess in the spotlight, and Divya Deshmukh Chess proudly carries this torch into the next generation.

Why Stories Like Divya’s Matter

Divya’s story is an excellent example for children and their parents who are considering chess. It’s more than a simple game. Chess teaches you patience, strategy, resilience, and problem-solving.

This is the reason so many parents enroll their children in chess classes online. It is now easier to learn from experts, use modern tools and compete in tournaments. With the right opportunities and guidance, children who are inspired by champions such as Divya Dehmukh will be able to start their path earlier.

Kaabil Kids on Shark Tank India Season 3: Presenting a Dream and a Purpose

Since Shark Tank India Season 5 is launching soon, let’s take a moment to look back at Season 3, when Kaabil Kids stepped onto the Shark Tank stage. It wasn’t just about seeking investment, it was about sharing a belief that chess can truly transform the way children think, grow, and lead. That day, our founders, Sunil Raina and Kitty Mahapatra, along with Chief Mentor – Grandmaster Tejas Bakre, didn’t just present a product; they presented a purpose. Their dream was clear: to nurture focus, confidence, and strategic thinking in children aged 5 to 15, the core skills that build leadership and lifelong learning. 

Supported by strong leadership and expert mentorship, Kaabil Kids is helping young minds build sharper skills and stronger futures, one thoughtful move at a time. Since that episode aired, our journey has grown even stronger; we’ve expanded to new regions, added passionate coaches, and helped thousands more children become confident thinkers and problem solvers. 

Chess is more than a game at Kaabil Kids, it’s a launchpad for leadership, sharpening focus, resilience, and creativity through thousands of interactive chess classes online backed by Grandmaster Tejas Bakre and our expert team. Our Shark Tank pitch reflected a future where learning is exciting and meaningful, not just screen time, with a curriculum designed for real growth. Kaabil Kids continues to bring structured, joyful learning to homes, making the vision we shared on TV a growing reality for families everywhere.

Conclusion

Divya’s story of becoming the youngest Indian grandmaster at chess goes beyond a simple sports tale. This is a story about hard work, dedication, and determination. She has gone from her Nagpur roots to international stages and has become a symbol for Indian women chess players.

She shows us that no dream is impossible with the correct mindset, constant practice and appropriate guidance. Her journey can inspire young players to begin their own journeys with dedication, whether through school, local tournaments or trusted platforms for chess classes online such as Kaabil Kid.

To learn more about her achievements, visit the Divya Deshmukh Chess Wikipedia page.

FAQs About Divya Deshmukh and Chess

Ever wondered about the long-term benefits of chess for a child’s intelligence and brain development? It’s not just about kings or queens. Chess can help develop important life skills for your child. This blog will answer your questions about why parents sign their children up for Online Chess Classes and Online Coaching Classes. We’ll talk about the long-term, real benefits of chess.

Why Should Your Child Learn Chess?

The game of chess involves more than just moving the pieces around a board. It is like a mental gym. Your child will learn to plan ahead, focus, and solve problems when they play chess. They are also useful skills for school, socializing with others, and everyday living.

Benefits of chess? Here’s how children gain from playing:

• Concentrate better on class
• Make smart decisions
• Solve difficult problems
• Be patient and calm
• Be creative

To develop these abilities, you must learn to be able to plan ahead.

How Chess Builds Strong Thinking Skills

Chess is a lot like solving a puzzle over and over again. Children need to be able:

• Plan your moves
• What will their opponents do next?
• Choose the best option from a variety of options

This type of thinking can be described as Critical Thinking. This helps kids slow down, think and then act. It helps your child in subjects such as math and reading, because they will be able to recognize patterns and solve problems faster.

Memory is also improved by playing chess. Children remember rules and different strategies. It improves the brain’s memory, which is useful both inside and outside of school.

Real-Life Benefits of Chess You Can Observe in Your Child

As your child grows, you may notice the benefits of chess in many different ways.

• Improved Focus: Children who play chess are better able to focus. It helps you with your homework and pay attention at school.
• Better Decision Making: Playing chess helps children weigh up their options before making a decision. The children learn to learn and accept their results, whether they win or lose.
• Emotional strength: Although losing a game is frustrating, kids will learn to be patient and resilient. The kids learn that making mistakes is an opportunity to grow.
• Creativity: Playing chess doesn’t have to be the same. Children explore and learn new ways of winning, fostering creativity.

The benefits of these activities will help your child develop a confident personality.

Why Online Chess Classes Are So Popular Today

Why should your child learn online Chess from India? The answer is very simple. Expert instruction is available at your fingertips with online chess classes. Children can often participate in live sessions to ask questions or play against others.

Online classes like Kaabil Kids offer children an easy way to learn chess, step by step, with constant feedback. Monthly tournaments keep children motivated, and you get to see the progress of your child. The classes have been designed to make learning exciting and fun, without being boring.

How Chess Helps Improve School Performance

Parents often ask about the benefits of chess and whether it can help with schoolwork. The answer is yes, chess can support learning and improve skills

Children who regularly play chess perform better than those who do not. The children learn to concentrate, to think critically and to understand patterns, skills that are directly transferable to the classroom.

Children who struggle to concentrate can also benefit from chess. Children with ADHD, for example, often show improvements in their attention and control after they learn chess. It teaches them patience, and to think before they act. This makes it easier for the children to concentrate in other areas.

What Makes the Best Online Chess Classes in India?

India has many chess coaches and players who are experts. India’s best online classes combine high-quality teaching and technology to keep kids interested. These classes are more than just chess lessons. The classes help to develop your child mentally and emotionally.

Search for software that has:

• Grandmasters are experienced and highly qualified teachers.
• Lessons that are interactive and live, rather than pre-recorded video
• Monthly competitions and other fun activities
• Updates on the progress of your child

The coaching will help your child to learn the game of chess and then apply it in other areas of their life.

The Story of Kaabil Kids on Shark Tank India

If you want to see how powerful learning chess can be, look at the story of Kaabil Kids. They are one of India’s leading online chess training platforms for kids aged 5 to 15.

In Season 3 of Shark Tank India, Kaabil Kids pitched to the Sharks. It wasn’t just about getting money, it was about sharing a dream. Their founders, Sunil Raina and Kitty Mahapatra, wanted to help children grow confidence, focus, and strategic thinking.

Since the show aired, Kaabil kids has grown a lot. They now teach thousands of children worldwide. Their live, interactive classes, monthly tournaments, and clear progress tracking make learning chess fun and effective.

The Sharks recognized how meaningful Kaabil kids’ mission was. They helped the founders expand their reach and impact more children across India. This shows how chess can transform children’s minds and futures, one thoughtful move at a time.

Conclusion

Chess can be a good place to start if you’re looking to give your children a leg up in the world. The game teaches skills such as focus, patience, creativity and decision-making. They help them do better at school, and become confident and thoughtful adults.

Online Chess Classes from India, and elsewhere are now available. This means that quality coaching in chess is just a few clicks away. Kaabil Kids offers the best online chess classes for your child to develop both on and off of the board.

Begin your child’s chess journey today. Make smart decisions, one step at a time.

Check out this article for more information on the benefits of chess to children.

FAQs About Chess and Children’s Growth

If you’re reading this, you’re probably thinking about buying a best chess board. Maybe you want to start learning chess, or your child is joining a chess club. You might even be getting serious about tournaments and want to practice at home. Regardless of your reason, selecting the right chessboard is essential. The board you choose can help you learn faster, play better, and enjoy the game more.

This blog will find all the answers you need. I’ll walk you through the basics, share tips for beginners and advanced players, and help you avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll know exactly what kind of chessboard is best for you.

Choosing the Best Chess Board

Understanding Tournament-Size Chess Board

You might hear the words “tournament size” a lot. This just means the board matches the official size used in chess competitions. Tournament-size boards have 64 squares, just like any chessboard. But the squares are about 2 to 2.5 inches wide. The board is big enough so the pieces fit nicely, and you can move them without bumping into each other.

Tournament-size boards are not just for professionals. They’re perfect for beginners, too. When you start with the right size, you get used to the look and feel of real chess. That helps you learn the game the right way from the start.

Types of Tournament Chess Boards

When you buy chess board, you’ll see many options. However, as a brand, we only recommend tournament-sized boards. Here’s what you’ll find:

• Wooden Chess Boards: These are the classic boards you see in clubs and tournaments. They look great, last a long time, and feel nice to play on. If you want a best chess board that feels special, go for wood.
• Roll-Up Vinyl Chess Boards: These boards are practical and convenient. They’re easy to carry, store, and clean. Many schools and clubs use roll-up boards because they’re rugged and affordable. They still follow tournament-size rules so that you can use them anywhere.

What to Look for in a Chessboard

Here’s what matters most when picking a chessboard:

• Size: Always choose tournament size. The squares should be about 2 to 2.5 inches wide.
• Materials: Opt for wood for a classic and sturdy appearance. Choose vinyl if you need something easy to carry.
• Coordinates: Boards with letters and numbers along the sides are helpful. They make it easier to follow lessons and record your moves.
• Staunton Pieces: This is the style used in all tournaments. The pieces are easy to distinguish and have a classic appearance.

If you follow these tips, you’ll have a board that’s perfect for learning, practice, and competition.

Tips for Beginners

If you’re just starting, here’s what you should do:

• Get a tournament-size board right away. This helps you learn the correct way from the start.
• Use boards with coordinates. They make it easier to follow along in lessons.
• Don’t worry about getting a fancy board at first. Focus on size and durability.
• Practice setting up the board correctly. The bottom-right square should always be white.

If your child is starting to play chess, these tips will help them develop good habits. They’ll feel comfortable when they play in real tournaments because the board will resemble the one they use at home.

Upgrading as You Improve

As you improve, you may want to consider upgrading your board. Maybe you want a wooden board for home practice, or you’re joining more tournaments. Here’s what to consider:

• Wooden boards look great and last a long time. They’re perfect for serious practice.
• Ensure your board adheres to FIDE (World Chess Federation) rules. The squares should be the correct size, and the pieces should be Staunton-style.
• If you travel a lot, a roll-up vinyl board is still a good choice. It’s easy to pack and won’t get damaged.

Practising on a tournament-size board at home helps you prepare for real competitions. You’ll feel more confident and less nervous when you play in front of others.

What About Accessories?

If you’re getting serious about chess, you might need a few extras:

• Chess Clock: Used in tournaments to keep track of time.
• Notation Pad: For recording your moves during games.
• Carrying Bag: Protect your board and pieces when travelling.

These aren’t required for beginners, but they’re helpful as you advance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced players make mistakes when picking a board. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using the wrong size board. Always stick to tournament size.
• Picking decorative boards (like glass or marble). These look nice, but they aren’t suitable for real play.
• Mixing up the board orientation. Remember: the bottom-right square is white.
• Using the wrong pieces. Staunton style is the only type allowed in tournaments.

If you avoid these mistakes, you’ll have a better experience and be ready for any competition.

Kaabil Kids: We’re Here to Help

At Kaabil Kids, we use only tournament-size professional chess board in our online classes. This means your child will always practice on the same kind of board they’ll see in real tournaments. Our trainers understand the importance of the right board in fostering learning and confidence. We’re happy to help you pick the perfect board for your needs.

Final Tips for Choosing Your Chess Board

• Start with a tournament-size board, even if you’re a beginner.
• Upgrade to a wooden board as you get more serious.
• Use Staunton pieces for every game.
• Practice setting up the board correctly.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Coaches and experienced players are always willing to help.

Ready to Start Your Chess Journey?

Choosing the right chessboard is the first step. If you have questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our team at Kaabil Kids. We’re here to support you, from your first move to your first tournament win. Let’s make every move count, together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chess is more than just a game. For many, it’s a journey, from learning the basics to competing in tournaments and making new friends along the way. If you or your child is interested in joining chess tournaments in India, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through how to participate in chess tournaments, what to expect, and the important chess tournament rules you need to know. Let’s make your chess journey smooth and successful.

Why Chess Tournaments Matter

Tournaments are where the magic happens. They’re exciting, challenging, and a great way to test your skills against others. Whether you’re a beginner or a budding champion, playing in tournaments helps you grow. You learn from every game, win or lose. And best of all, you get to meet people who love chess as much as you do.

Getting Started: Online Chess Learning and Practice

Before you dive into tournaments, it’s smart to build a strong foundation. Online chess learning is a great way to start. Platforms like Kaabil kids offer online chess coaching from professional trainers, making it easy to learn at your own pace and prepare for competitions. You’ll cover everything from basic moves to advanced strategies and tournament preparation. Many students begin here before advancing to school, district, or even national tournaments.

Types of Chess Tournaments in India

India has a vibrant chess community. There are many types of chess tournaments you can join:

• School and District Tournaments: Perfect for beginners and young players.
• State-Level Tournaments: For those with a bit more experience.
• National and FIDE-Rated Tournaments: For advanced players aiming for official rankings.
• Open Chess Tournament: Participation is open to anyone, regardless of age or rating.
• Online Chess Tournaments: Play from home and compete with players across the country or even the world.

Keep an eye out for upcoming chess tournaments in India. Many websites and chess clubs regularly post updates about upcoming events.

How to Participate in Chess Tournaments

It’s easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Find a Tournament: Search online, ask your coach, or check with local chess clubs for upcoming chess tournaments in India. Open chess tournaments are a great starting point for beginners.
2. Register: Most tournaments require advance registration. You may need to fill out a form and pay a small entry fee.
3. Prepare Your Equipment: Bring a tournament chess set and a tournament chess board. Some events provide sets, but it’s always good to have your own.
4. Know the Schedule: Arrive on time. Some tournaments start early, and being late can mean losing your first game by default.
5. Check the Rules: Every tournament has its own set of chess tournament rules. Read them carefully before the event.

What to Bring to a Chess Tournament

• Tournament Chess Set and Board: Standard size, usually Staunton style.
• Chess Clock: Many tournaments require you to use a clock.
• Score Sheet and Pen: For recording your moves (more on this below).
• Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized.
• Comfortable Clothes: You might be sitting for a while!

Basic Chess Tournament Rules You Must Know

Knowing the rules makes your tournament experience smoother and stress-free. Here are the most essential chess rules for tournament play:

• Touch Move: If you touch a piece, you must move it if it’s a legal move.
• One-Hand Rule: Use only one hand to move pieces and press the clock.
• Recording Moves: In most tournaments, you need to write down your moves using algebraic notation. Do this after each move before pressing your clock.
• Time Control: Each player gets a set amount of time. If you run out, you lose the game.
• Draw Rules: Games can end in a draw by agreement, stalemate, threefold repetition, or the 50-move rule (if no pawn moves or captures happen in 50 moves).
• No Distractions: Don’t talk, make noise, or distract your opponent.
• Be Respectful: Always shake hands before and after the game.

Special Chess Tournament Rules to Remember

Some rules are unique to tournaments and can catch new players off guard:

• Arrive on Time: If you’re late, you might lose by default.
• Ask the Arbiter: If you have a question or a dispute, raise your hand and ask the tournament official. Don’t argue with your opponent.
• Illegal Moves: If you make an illegal move, your opponent can call the arbiter. Repeated illegal moves can lead to a loss.
• Stop Recording Under Time Pressure: If you have less than five minutes left, you can stop recording your moves.

Tips for Your First Tournament

• Practice with a Tournament Chess Board and Set: Get used to the pieces and the clock.
• Play Practice Games: Join online chess learning sessions or play with friends and family.
• Stay Calm: Nerves are normal. Focus on your game, not the result.
• Review Your Games: Win or lose, look back at your games to learn from mistakes.

How to Find Upcoming Chess Tournaments in India

• Check Chess Federation Websites: The All India Chess Federation and state associations post event calendars.
• Join Chess Clubs: Local clubs often organize open chess tournaments and share news about bigger events.
• Ask Your Coach: Coaches are usually aware of upcoming chess tournaments and can assist with registration.

A Quick Recap: Your Tournament Checklist

• Find and register for a tournament.
• Read all the chess tournament rules.
• Practice recording your moves.
• Arrive early and stay focused.
• Play fair and have fun!

Final Thoughts

Participating in chess tournaments is a big step in your chess journey. It’s about more than just winning, it’s about learning, growing, and enjoying the game. With the proper preparation, a good understanding of chess rules for tournament play, and a positive attitude, you’ll make the most of every event.

If you’re looking for expert guidance, online chess learning with Kaabil kids can help you get ready for your first tournament and beyond. From mastering the basics to understanding advanced chess tournament rules, our coaches are here to support you every step of the way.

Ready to make your move? Start practicing, sign up for an open chess tournament, and let your chess adventure begin!

Do you ever ask yourself how to level up your chess game? Whether you’re a beginner or want to enhance your strategies, online chess classes can be a lifesaver. With the ease of learning at home, it’s never been simpler to enhance your chess game. But how can you really upgrade your online chess lessons? 

At Kaabil Kids, we are of the opinion that everyone can learn and master chess with the proper approach. Whether you are signing up for online chess classes for kids or want to enhance your own skills, here are some professional tips to maximize your experience. 

1. Set Clear Goals for Your Chess Journey 

Before diving into online chess lessons for kids or even online chess for beginners, it’s necessary to define clear objectives. What do you wish to do? Do you wish to master the fundamentals, or are you going for advanced strategies? Defining objectives will keep you on track and motivated. 

For children, objectives may be minimal, such as learning how the pieces can move or executing basic checkmates. For adults or for more serious learners, objectives may be learning particular openings or enhancing endgame strategy. Having an idea of where you’re heading makes the learning process easier and more enjoyable. 

2. Practice Consistently Between Classes 

One of the most effective ways to optimize your learning in online chess classes is through regular practice. As with any skill, practice is essential to enhance it. Don’t wait until your next lesson to practice—attempt to play or solve chess puzzles daily. 

You can play online against other players or use chess apps to hone your skills. Also, be sure to practice what is learned in your kids’ chess classes or beginner classes. Consistency breeds muscle memory, which is essential when playing quicker games or when mastering higher-level tactics. 

3. Participate Actively During Classes 

It’s easy to sit back and passively watch lessons, but active participation is what will make a difference in your chess progress. If you’re taking online chess classes for kids, encourage them to ask questions, play games during class, and discuss the moves. This not only boosts engagement but also improves understanding. 

For new students and adults, do not hesitate to stop the lesson and think about the ideas. Ask questions, jot down notes, and review difficult points. Active engagement allows you to grasp the material more deeply and implement it successfully during games. 

4. Focus on Learning Fundamentals First 

Whether you’re starting with online chess for beginners, or your child is joining chess classes for kids, it’s important to master the basics. Understanding the fundamental moves, like how each piece moves, basic checkmates, and common opening strategies, lays a solid foundation for more advanced concepts. 

Take the time to practice these fundamentals before diving into advanced strategies. Understanding the fundamentals will help you learn more advanced techniques more easily later on. Even as an advanced player, going back to the basics can often open up new methods of improving your overall game. 

5. Watch and Analyze Professional Games 

One of the greatest means to get better is to observe how masters play. When taking online chess classes, observe masters’ games online during your free time. Observe their moves and attempt to grasp the reasons why they made specific choices. Through this, you will be introduced to various styles and techniques that can be applied to your own gameplay. 

For children, it might mean observing some grandmasters play and going over their moves in class. For beginners or adults, it’s a wonderful means to learn sophisticated tactics and methods. 

6. Be Patient and Do Not Rush the Process! 

Chess is a tricky game, and it takes time to master it. Whether you’re taking online chess classes for kids or learning as an adult, it’s important to be patient with the process. Celebrate small victories, like winning a game or successfully applying a new tactic, but don’t get discouraged by setbacks. 

Your improvement in chess occurs slowly. Keep in mind that it’s not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Be patient, practice consistently, and the outcome will follow! 

7. Review Your Games and Learn from Mistakes 

One of the most significant aspects of improvement is learning from errors. After every game, sit down and study the moves you played, particularly those which did not go as planned. A lot of online chess lessons prompt participants to study their own games in order to identify flaws and progress. 

For children, game reviewing can also be a learning experience. It makes them see where they went wrong and not do it again in the future. For beginners and advanced players alike, reviewing old games enables you to see areas of improvement and streamline your strategies. 

8. Join Online Chess Communities 

Chess is more enjoyable when you can play it with others. Being part of an online chess community enables you to play against individuals from all over the world and learn new things about your game. Most online chess classes for children have provisions for taking part in online tournaments or challenges. This is an excellent way to challenge yourself and learn more. 

For adults or beginners, being in a community can also help you remain motivated and discover new approaches. Online chess forums, clubs, or social network pages can give you advice, inspiration, and a chance to interact with fellow chess players. 

Maximize Your Potential with Online Chess Classes! 

Whether you are a kid beginning in kids’ chess classes or an adult plunging into beginner online chess, the secret to success is dedication, practice, and patience. By establishing specific goals, practicing regularly, actively participating in classes, and learning from professionals, you can speed up your progress and become a more skilled chess player. 

Here at Kaabil Kids, we are committed to assisting students of all ages to reach their maximum potential at chess. Our online chess lessons provide an enjoyable, interactive, and productive means to study the game. So, what do you wait for?  

Begin your chess experience today and boost your skills!