<p>Two-time Indian women's chess champion Tania Sachdev has spent more than two decades living the game of chess —first as a player, then as a commentator, and always as someone deeply connected to the community around it. Wherever she goes, she carries the same energy: smiling with young players, helping them solve puzzles, or cheering them on from the sidelines.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For her, chess has never been only about winning; it has always been about joy, growth, and the bonds it creates. Recently, during the Armageddon event in Chennai, that philosophy was clear. Even after hours of games and commentary, she stayed with the crowd, sharing the thrill of every position and every move. It was a reminder that for her, chess is not just competition—it is community, connection, and conversation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wion-exclusive-from-youtube-tutorials-to-asian-junior-trials-how-14-year-old-vasundhara-nangare-found-her-game-in-squash-1757251898958"><strong>WION Exclusive — From YouTube tutorials to Asian Junior trials: How 14-year-old Vasundhara Nangare found her game in squash</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>When asked what keeps her motivated after more than two decades in the sport, Tania doesn’t talk about medals or milestones. Instead, she speaks of growth. “Chess constantly teaches you something new. It humbles you, it challenges you, and it rewards you when you least expect it. That’s what keeps me going," she said in an exclusive interview with WION.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Her reflections cut to the essence of why chess endures. Beyond the intensity of preparation, the thrill of victories, or the heartbreak of losses, lies a game that mirrors life itself — one where patience, strategy, and resilience matter as much as raw talent. For Tania, each tournament and commentary gig is another chapter in that lifelong learning process. And yet, she is quick to remind younger players not to view chess only through the lens of results. “At the end of the day, it’s about enjoying the journey. Whether you’re a beginner learning how the knight moves, or someone competing at the Olympiad, the joy has to be there. Without it, the game loses its magic.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Looking around India’s booming chess scene, she feels a quiet pride. With prodigies making headlines and a new generation filling up playing halls, Tania knows she has been part of a movement larger than herself. She has seen Indian chess evolve from scattered beginnings to becoming a global powerhouse—and in many ways, her own story is a reflection of that rise. But even as she looks ahead, one thing remains unchanged: the belief that the next move is always the most important. On the board and off it, Tania Sachdev continues to live by that mantra — calm, focused, and always ready for the next challenge.</p>

WION Exclusive — The next move always matters: International Master Tania Sachdev’s philosophy on chess and life

Two-time Indian women's chess champion Tania Sachdev has spent more than two decades living the game of chess —first as a player, then as a commentator, and always as someone deeply connected to the community around it. Wherever she goes, she carries the same energy: smiling with young players, helping them solve puzzles, or cheering them on from the sidelines. For her, chess has never been only about winning; it has always been about joy, growth, and the bonds it creates. Recently, during the Armageddon event in Chennai, that philosophy was clear. Even after hours of games and commentary, she stayed with the crowd, sharing the thrill of every position and every move. It was a reminder that for her, chess is not just competition—it is community, connection, and conversation. Also Read: WION Exclusive — From YouTube tutorials to Asian Junior trials: How 14-year-old Vasundhara Nangare found her game in squash When asked what keeps her motivated after more than two decades in the sport, Tania doesn’t talk about medals or milestones. Instead, she speaks of growth. “Chess constantly teaches you something new. It humbles you, it challenges you, and it rewards you when you least expect it. That’s what keeps me going," she said in an exclusive interview with WION. Her reflections cut to the essence of why chess endures. Beyond the intensity of preparation, the thrill of victories, or the heartbreak of losses, lies a game that mirrors life itself — one where patience, strategy, and resilience matter as much as raw talent. For Tania, each tournament and commentary gig is another chapter in that lifelong learning process. And yet, she is quick to remind younger players not to view chess only through the lens of results. “At the end of the day, it’s about enjoying the journey. Whether you’re a beginner learning how the knight moves, or someone competing at the Olympiad, the joy has to be there. Without it, the game loses its magic.” Looking around India’s booming chess scene, she feels a quiet pride. With prodigies making headlines and a new generation filling up playing halls, Tania knows she has been part of a movement larger than herself. She has seen Indian chess evolve from scattered beginnings to becoming a global powerhouse—and in many ways, her own story is a reflection of that rise. But even as she looks ahead, one thing remains unchanged: the belief that the next move is always the most important. On the board and off it, Tania Sachdev continues to live by that mantra — calm, focused, and always ready for the next challenge.

<p>International Master Tania Sachdev reflects on chess as joy and learning, reminding players that the next move — on and off the board — is what truly matters</p>

<p>For most chess fans, watching a game is a few hours of following the moves on a board. For Tania Sachdev, it is a way of life—and one that unfolds in two very different worlds. On one hand, she is an International Master who has fought across the toughest tournaments, carrying India’s flag at world and Olympic stages. On the other, she is a voice of the game, one of the most popular commentators in international chess, bringing high-pressure battles to life for millions of fans around the globe.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wion-exclusive-the-woman-who-runs-for-india-how-sufiya-sufi-is-redefining-ultra-endurance-running-1756808585693"><strong>WION Exclusive - The woman who runs for India: How Sufiya Sufi is redefining ultra-endurance running</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Balancing the two is no easy task. Tania describes the life of a professional chess player as one filled with constant preparation. “It’s very solitary,” she admits. Hours are spent with engines, memorising lines, sharpening tactical vision, and working through endgame studies. The competition itself, whether on the national or global stage, brings its own mental pressure—where every move can decide months of hard work.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Commentary, however, is an entirely different beast. When she sits in front of the camera, Tania, who was in Chennai recently for the Red Bull India Armageddon event, steps into the role of a guide, entertainer, and analyst all at once. She has to break down complex strategies for beginners without losing the nuance for seasoned fans. She must track multiple boards simultaneously, anticipate variations, and still carry the conversation with energy and warmth. Unlike the player’s solitude, commentary is collaborative and immediate—it demands sharpness, quick wit, and the ability to connect.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-don-t-have-a-habit-of-setting-up-hookah-irfan-pathan-takes-indirect-aim-at-former-skipper-ms-dhoni-netizens-react-1756811318989"><strong>'I don’t have a habit of setting up hookah': Irfan Pathan takes indirect aim at former skipper</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Both are intense in their own way,” she reflects. “As a player, you’re consumed by your own game. As a commentator, you live every game on every board—it’s exhausting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.” Her transition into the commentary booth was almost natural. Known for her articulate style and ability to capture both the technical and human sides of the sport, she has been the face and voice of many of the biggest events of recent years. Whether it is the Candidates, the Olympiad, or online global tournaments, Tania has built a reputation as someone who makes chess engaging without oversimplifying it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>And yet, she never stops being a player. Even after marathon commentary sessions, she returns to her preparation. The discipline of a professional athlete still defines her daily routine, reminding fans that the woman they hear explaining elite games has herself been on the same stage, under the same lights, making those very moves. This duality—chess player and chess commentator—has made her one of the most unique figures in Indian sport. For young fans in Chennai or Delhi who see her at events, she represents more than just a career in chess; she represents the idea that one can live the game in multiple ways, and still make it meaningful.</p>

WION Exclusive — The voice and the player: How Tania Sachdev lives two chess journeys at once

For most chess fans, watching a game is a few hours of following the moves on a board. For Tania Sachdev, it is a way of life—and one that unfolds in two very different worlds. On one hand, she is an International Master who has fought across the toughest tournaments, carrying India’s flag at world and Olympic stages. On the other, she is a voice of the game, one of the most popular commentators in international chess, bringing high-pressure battles to life for millions of fans around the globe. Also Read: WION Exclusive - The woman who runs for India: How Sufiya Sufi is redefining ultra-endurance running Balancing the two is no easy task. Tania describes the life of a professional chess player as one filled with constant preparation. “It’s very solitary,” she admits. Hours are spent with engines, memorising lines, sharpening tactical vision, and working through endgame studies. The competition itself, whether on the national or global stage, brings its own mental pressure—where every move can decide months of hard work. Commentary, however, is an entirely different beast. When she sits in front of the camera, Tania, who was in Chennai recently for the Red Bull India Armageddon event, steps into the role of a guide, entertainer, and analyst all at once. She has to break down complex strategies for beginners without losing the nuance for seasoned fans. She must track multiple boards simultaneously, anticipate variations, and still carry the conversation with energy and warmth. Unlike the player’s solitude, commentary is collaborative and immediate—it demands sharpness, quick wit, and the ability to connect. Also Read: 'I don’t have a habit of setting up hookah': Irfan Pathan takes indirect aim at former skipper “Both are intense in their own way,” she reflects. “As a player, you’re consumed by your own game. As a commentator, you live every game on every board—it’s exhausting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.” Her transition into the commentary booth was almost natural. Known for her articulate style and ability to capture both the technical and human sides of the sport, she has been the face and voice of many of the biggest events of recent years. Whether it is the Candidates, the Olympiad, or online global tournaments, Tania has built a reputation as someone who makes chess engaging without oversimplifying it. And yet, she never stops being a player. Even after marathon commentary sessions, she returns to her preparation. The discipline of a professional athlete still defines her daily routine, reminding fans that the woman they hear explaining elite games has herself been on the same stage, under the same lights, making those very moves. This duality—chess player and chess commentator—has made her one of the most unique figures in Indian sport. For young fans in Chennai or Delhi who see her at events, she represents more than just a career in chess; she represents the idea that one can live the game in multiple ways, and still make it meaningful.

<p>Tania Sachdev balances two worlds—an International Master competing globally and a charismatic chess commentator, making the game engaging for millions while staying rooted in her player’s discipline</p>

<p>Over the past few years, chess in India has witnessed a remarkable transformation. What was once considered a niche intellectual pursuit has now grown into a dynamic sport, with a new generation of players redefining the way the game is played and perceived. International Master Tania Sachdev is one of the strongest voices behind this evolution. A player, a champion, and now one of the most sought-after commentators in world chess, she has lived the journey of Indian chess from its early promise to its current golden age.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At the Red Bull Armageddon chess event in Chennai, now considered to be the chess capital of India, Tania embodied the perfect blend of competitor and mentor. She moved with ease between the roles of participant, guide, and motivator. On the sidelines, she watched games with an intensity that reflected years of experience at the top level, her eyes following each move with the sharpness of a player who knows the weight of decision-making on the 64 squares.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/next-to-dhoni-and-rohit-sam-billings-now-has-most-t20-titles-as-captain-after-leading-oval-invincibles-to-third-straight-trophy-1756708921302"><strong>Next to Dhoni and Rohit - Sam Billings now has most T20 titles as captain after leading Oval Invincibles to third straight trophy</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>When participants struggled with puzzles, she stepped in, solving alongside them, guiding them toward the right answers, and sharing the thrill of cracking a difficult position. Between games, she could be seen engaging with players warmly, offering encouragement, and breaking the tension with her easy laugh. And when the competition reached its climax, she was the loudest cheerleader in the hall, clapping and celebrating the fighting spirit of the participants as much as their victories. Dressed in a casual yet striking white hoodie with red accents, her look mirrored the event’s atmosphere—youthful, vibrant, and full of energy. Tania stood as both a star and a supporter, someone who commands respect but also makes the sport feel approachable to every fan in the room.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Chess has changed so much with this new generation,” she reflected in an exclusive conversation with WION. “One of the biggest reasons has been the tools and the opportunities they’ve had since a young age. It feels like a totally different sport from when I started playing.” “Chess teaches us something new every day, then you know that the game is just going to continue impress you. Chess itself is beautifully complex,” she further added.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-oldest-djokovic-emulates-jimmy-connors-goes-past-federer-and-agassi-in-historic-us-open-2025-r16-win-1756704948883"><strong>'Oldest' Djokovic emulates Jimmy Connors, goes past Federer and Agassi in historic US Open R16 win</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Indeed, chess in India today feels alive with possibility. Chess has also become faster, with rapid and blitz formats gaining equal, if not greater, importance alongside classical play. This change is mirrored in India’s rise as a chess powerhouse. From the trailblazing legacy of Viswanathan Anand to the new generation of stars like D Gukesh, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, Koneru Humpy and Divya Deshmukh, India is not just producing strong players—it is shaping the global chess narrative.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Tania herself credits Judit Polgar, the Hungarian legend who broke into the world’s top ten, as one of her early inspirations. “She not only shattered the glass ceiling but raised the bar for the rest of us to follow,” Tania shared. That spirit of breaking barriers defines Indian chess today. More young girls are confidently competing in open categories, new grandmasters are emerging every year, and communities across the country are rallying around the sport. With role models like Tania Sachdev bridging the worlds of champion and commentator, chess in India has found not just success but also a voice that connects it to fans worldwide.</p>

WION Exclusive Chess feels like a totally different sport now says International Master Tania Sachdev on rise of sport in India

Over the past few years, chess in India has witnessed a remarkable transformation. What was once considered a niche intellectual pursuit has now grown into a dynamic sport, with a new generation of players redefining the way the game is played and perceived. International Master Tania Sachdev is one of the strongest voices behind this evolution. A player, a champion, and now one of the most sought-after commentators in world chess, she has lived the journey of Indian chess from its early promise to its current golden age. At the Red Bull Armageddon chess event in Chennai, now considered to be the chess capital of India, Tania embodied the perfect blend of competitor and mentor. She moved with ease between the roles of participant, guide, and motivator. On the sidelines, she watched games with an intensity that reflected years of experience at the top level, her eyes following each move with the sharpness of a player who knows the weight of decision-making on the 64 squares. Also Read: Next to Dhoni and Rohit - Sam Billings now has most T20 titles as captain after leading Oval Invincibles to third straight trophy When participants struggled with puzzles, she stepped in, solving alongside them, guiding them toward the right answers, and sharing the thrill of cracking a difficult position. Between games, she could be seen engaging with players warmly, offering encouragement, and breaking the tension with her easy laugh. And when the competition reached its climax, she was the loudest cheerleader in the hall, clapping and celebrating the fighting spirit of the participants as much as their victories. Dressed in a casual yet striking white hoodie with red accents, her look mirrored the event’s atmosphere—youthful, vibrant, and full of energy. Tania stood as both a star and a supporter, someone who commands respect but also makes the sport feel approachable to every fan in the room. “Chess has changed so much with this new generation,” she reflected in an exclusive conversation with WION. “One of the biggest reasons has been the tools and the opportunities they’ve had since a young age. It feels like a totally different sport from when I started playing.” “Chess teaches us something new every day, then you know that the game is just going to continue impress you. Chess itself is beautifully complex,” she further added. Also Read: 'Oldest' Djokovic emulates Jimmy Connors, goes past Federer and Agassi in historic US Open R16 win Indeed, chess in India today feels alive with possibility. Chess has also become faster, with rapid and blitz formats gaining equal, if not greater, importance alongside classical play. This change is mirrored in India’s rise as a chess powerhouse. From the trailblazing legacy of Viswanathan Anand to the new generation of stars like D Gukesh, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, Koneru Humpy and Divya Deshmukh, India is not just producing strong players—it is shaping the global chess narrative. Tania herself credits Judit Polgar, the Hungarian legend who broke into the world’s top ten, as one of her early inspirations. “She not only shattered the glass ceiling but raised the bar for the rest of us to follow,” Tania shared. That spirit of breaking barriers defines Indian chess today. More young girls are confidently competing in open categories, new grandmasters are emerging every year, and communities across the country are rallying around the sport. With role models like Tania Sachdev bridging the worlds of champion and commentator, chess in India has found not just success but also a voice that connects it to fans worldwide.

<p>Chess in India has transformed into a global force, with International Master Tania Sachdev inspiring a new generation of players and shaping the nation into a chess superpower</p>

WION Exclusive: 'Chess feels like a totally different sport now', says International Master Tania Sachdev on rise of sport in India

<p>Chennai, the heart of Indian chess, is set to witness a bold new format of the game with Red Bull Armageddon, India’s first-ever all-Armageddon chess tournament, on Sunday (August 31) at the Chennai Convention Centre. Unlike traditional formats, the all-Armageddon format leaves no room for draws. Every game must produce a winner — White plays with six minutes, Black with five, and in case of a tie, Black takes the win. The unique pyramid-style competition ensures that players keep advancing until a single champion emerges, making the contest both visually gripping and spectator-friendly.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-zim-1st-odi-madushanka-hattrick-takes-sri-lanka-home-by-7-runs-in-thriller-1756485751882"><strong>SL vs ZIM, 1st ODI: Madushanka hattrick takes Sri Lanka home by 7 runs in thriller</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The tournament celebrates mental performance, showcasing the power of focus, strategy, and handling pressure under intense time controls. Leading the experience will be two of India’s finest chess personalities — International Master Tania Sachdev and Grandmaster M. Shyam Sundar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A Commonwealth Gold medalist and one of the most recognised chess commentators globally, Tania will guide audiences through live commentary, puzzles, and interactive “Hand &amp; Brain” sessions with fans. GM Shyam Sundar, India’s 31st Grandmaster and coach of the Indian women’s team that recently clinched historic medals at the World Cup, will add his expertise and energy to the event.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Both will also interact with the media and fans during the tournament. Chennai — home to legends like Viswanathan Anand and young prodigies such as Gukesh — has long been regarded as India’s chess capital. Having hosted the 44th FIDE Chess Olympiad in 2022, the city is the perfect stage for this thrilling new chapter in chess.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-news-cowboys-parsons-trade-jerry-jones-says-deal-in-best-interest-of-our-organization-1756479126243"><strong>Cowboys trade Micah Parsons: Jerry Jones says deal in 'best interest of our organization'</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With its no-draws, high-pressure battles, the tournament promises to bring chess closer to the excitement of a live sport, engaging both enthusiasts and casual fans alike.</p>

Chennai gears up for India’s first all-Armageddon chess tournament

Chennai, the heart of Indian chess, is set to witness a bold new format of the game with Red Bull Armageddon, India’s first-ever all-Armageddon chess tournament, on Sunday (August 31) at the Chennai Convention Centre. Unlike traditional formats, the all-Armageddon format leaves no room for draws. Every game must produce a winner — White plays with six minutes, Black with five, and in case of a tie, Black takes the win. The unique pyramid-style competition ensures that players keep advancing until a single champion emerges, making the contest both visually gripping and spectator-friendly. Also Read: SL vs ZIM, 1st ODI: Madushanka hattrick takes Sri Lanka home by 7 runs in thriller The tournament celebrates mental performance, showcasing the power of focus, strategy, and handling pressure under intense time controls. Leading the experience will be two of India’s finest chess personalities — International Master Tania Sachdev and Grandmaster M. Shyam Sundar. A Commonwealth Gold medalist and one of the most recognised chess commentators globally, Tania will guide audiences through live commentary, puzzles, and interactive “Hand & Brain” sessions with fans. GM Shyam Sundar, India’s 31st Grandmaster and coach of the Indian women’s team that recently clinched historic medals at the World Cup, will add his expertise and energy to the event. Both will also interact with the media and fans during the tournament. Chennai — home to legends like Viswanathan Anand and young prodigies such as Gukesh — has long been regarded as India’s chess capital. Having hosted the 44th FIDE Chess Olympiad in 2022, the city is the perfect stage for this thrilling new chapter in chess. Also Read: Cowboys trade Micah Parsons: Jerry Jones says deal in 'best interest of our organization' With its no-draws, high-pressure battles, the tournament promises to bring chess closer to the excitement of a live sport, engaging both enthusiasts and casual fans alike.

<p>Chennai set to host India’s first all-Armageddon chess tournament on Aug 31, 2025 — a no-draw, fast-paced format led by Tania Sachdev &amp; Grand Master Shyam Sundar</p>

<p>In the world of Indian chess, where stalwarts like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/viswanathan-anand">Viswanathan Anand</a> have inspired generations, young talents like Woman Grandmaster (WGM) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vantika-agrawal">Vantika Agrawal</a> are paving their own way. With a determined gaze and a calm demeanor, she embodies the spirit of a true chess warrior. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, where chess is still gaining prominence, Vantika has already left a significant mark on the sport, proving that talent knows no regional boundaries.</p>
<h2>The beginning</h2>
<p>Vantika&rsquo;s tryst with chess was almost accidental. Recalling her first encounter with the game, she shares, &ldquo;We had this zero period in school where everyone had to pick an activity. Most kids chose chess, so I thought, why not? When I first saw the chessboard, I was amazed by the pieces and how they moved&mdash;the knight, the bishop, everything.&rdquo; That curiosity soon turned into passion as she and her brother took up the game seriously, even persuading their parents to enroll them in a chess academy.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-buttler-serves-it-hot-as-gujarat-hand-royal-challengers-bengaluru-eight-wicket-loss-8918831">IPL 2025: Buttler serves it hot as Gujarat hand Royal Challengers Bengaluru eight-wicket loss</a></strong></p>
<p>From that moment on, there was no looking back. She won a prize in her very first tournament, despite playing with a fractured hand. &ldquo;I think winning those initial prizes motivated me. When you get recognised, you feel good, and you want to work harder,&rdquo; she explained.</p>
<p>Despite her achievements, Vantika has often faced challenges, particularly in North India, where chess is not as widely recognised as in the South. &ldquo;People still ask me, &lsquo;What do you do besides chess?&rsquo; Even after winning the Arjuna Award, many in my area don&rsquo;t know about my achievements,&rdquo; she says with a smile.</p>
<p>She acknowledges the cultural gap in the chess ecosystem between North and South India, where players in the South are more willing to take the bold step of pursuing chess professionally. &ldquo;South India has a structured chess culture. Players are encouraged, there are more grandmasters, and kids are even leaving school to focus solely on chess. In the North, this mindset is rare,&rdquo; she shared.</p>
<p>For Vantika, the dream is clear&mdash;to earn the Grandmaster title and compete in top-tier tournaments. &ldquo;I am working really hard, dedicating six to eight hours daily to training. I focus on openings, middle-game calculations, and endgames. Physical fitness is equally important because games can last for hours, and you need mental endurance to avoid blunders,&rdquo; she explains.</p>
<p>Her training routine also includes psychological preparation. &ldquo;In chess, you have to be mentally strong. Losing a game or a tournament shouldn&rsquo;t break you. You need to bounce back and play even better,&rdquo; she says with a determined look.</p>
<h2>Who is Vantika's inspiration?</h2>
<p>Behind every great player is a strong support system, and for Vantika, that person is her mother. &ldquo;She left her job as a Chartered Accountant to travel with me for tournaments. She manages everything&mdash;my food, my schedule, and even my emotions when I am feeling down. She has been my biggest pillar of support,&rdquo; she shares fondly.</p>
<p>When it comes to inspirations, she admires the legendary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/magnus-carlsen">Magnus Carlsen</a> and enjoys watching documentaries like Magnus and Searching for Bobby Fischer. &ldquo;The Queen&rsquo;s Gambit was also an amazing show. Beth Harmon crushing everyone was so much fun to watch!&rdquo; she adds enthusiastically.</p>
<p>As a rising female chess star, Vantika is proud to be part of the growing movement of women excelling in the sport. &ldquo;Women in India are breaking barriers not just in chess but in every sport. Players like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tania-sachdev">Tania Sachdev</a> have paved the way for us. I hope to do the same for the next generation,&rdquo; she says.</p>
<p>Her message to aspiring young girls is simple yet powerful: &ldquo;If you are passionate about chess or any sport, give it your 100%. Work hard, have patience, and success will follow.&rdquo;</p>
<p>From winning gold medals at the Chess Olympiad to receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award, Vantika Agrawal&rsquo;s journey is nothing short of inspiring. As she sets her sights on breaking the 2500 rating barrier and claiming the Grandmaster title, one thing is clear&mdash;India&rsquo;s chess future is in safe hands. With her resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit, Vantika is not just playing the game; she is changing it.</p>

Sports: Hailing from UP, where chess is still gaining prominence, Vantika has already left significant mark on the sport, proving that talent knows no regional boundaries

In the world of Indian chess, where stalwarts like Viswanathan Anand have inspired generations, young talents like Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Vantika Agrawal are paving their own way. With a determined gaze and a calm demeanor, she embodies the spirit of a true chess warrior. Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, where chess is still gaining prominence, Vantika has already left a significant mark on the sport, proving that talent knows no regional boundaries. The beginning Vantika’s tryst with chess was almost accidental. Recalling her first encounter with the game, she shares, “We had this zero period in school where everyone had to pick an activity. Most kids chose chess, so I thought, why not? When I first saw the chessboard, I was amazed by the pieces and how they moved—the knight, the bishop, everything.” That curiosity soon turned into passion as she and her brother took up the game seriously, even persuading their parents to enroll them in a chess academy. Also Read: IPL 2025: Buttler serves it hot as Gujarat hand Royal Challengers Bengaluru eight-wicket loss From that moment on, there was no looking back. She won a prize in her very first tournament, despite playing with a fractured hand. “I think winning those initial prizes motivated me. When you get recognised, you feel good, and you want to work harder,” she explained. Despite her achievements, Vantika has often faced challenges, particularly in North India, where chess is not as widely recognised as in the South. “People still ask me, ‘What do you do besides chess?’ Even after winning the Arjuna Award, many in my area don’t know about my achievements,” she says with a smile. She acknowledges the cultural gap in the chess ecosystem between North and South India, where players in the South are more willing to take the bold step of pursuing chess professionally. “South India has a structured chess culture. Players are encouraged, there are more grandmasters, and kids are even leaving school to focus solely on chess. In the North, this mindset is rare,” she shared. For Vantika, the dream is clear—to earn the Grandmaster title and compete in top-tier tournaments. “I am working really hard, dedicating six to eight hours daily to training. I focus on openings, middle-game calculations, and endgames. Physical fitness is equally important because games can last for hours, and you need mental endurance to avoid blunders,” she explains. Her training routine also includes psychological preparation. “In chess, you have to be mentally strong. Losing a game or a tournament shouldn’t break you. You need to bounce back and play even better,” she says with a determined look. Who is Vantika's inspiration? Behind every great player is a strong support system, and for Vantika, that person is her mother. “She left her job as a Chartered Accountant to travel with me for tournaments. She manages everything—my food, my schedule, and even my emotions when I am feeling down. She has been my biggest pillar of support,” she shares fondly. When it comes to inspirations, she admires the legendary Magnus Carlsen and enjoys watching documentaries like Magnus and Searching for Bobby Fischer. “The Queen’s Gambit was also an amazing show. Beth Harmon crushing everyone was so much fun to watch!” she adds enthusiastically. As a rising female chess star, Vantika is proud to be part of the growing movement of women excelling in the sport. “Women in India are breaking barriers not just in chess but in every sport. Players like Tania Sachdev have paved the way for us. I hope to do the same for the next generation,” she says. Her message to aspiring young girls is simple yet powerful: “If you are passionate about chess or any sport, give it your 100%. Work hard, have patience, and success will follow.” From winning gold medals at the Chess Olympiad to receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award, Vantika Agrawal’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. As she sets her sights on breaking the 2500 rating barrier and claiming the Grandmaster title, one thing is clear—India’s chess future is in safe hands. With her resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit, Vantika is not just playing the game; she is changing it.

Exclusive | Checkmating stereotypes: How Vantika Agrawal is leading India’s chess revolution

<p>How 'Unlocking Creativity' brought athletes Matisse Thybulle, Miles Chamley-Watson, Tania Sachdev and more together on-screen – all from the director's apartment in Amsterdam.</p>

<p>Unlocking Creativity tells the story of athletes from all around the world in a film where they’re quickly thrown from the inside to the outside and finally back practicing the sport they love.</p>

<p>Because of the various travel restrictions in place around the world, this global shoot was pulled off with its director calling the shots from his Amsterdam apartment.</p>

<p>Erwin van den Ijssel would usually hand over instructions via a Bluetooth headset and regularly spoke through a giant speaker to the various crews on the ground.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-indian-hockey-forward-gurdev-singh-recounts-playing-with-balbir-singh-sr-in-1956-olympics-393340" hreflang="en">Former Indian hockey forward Gurdev Singh recounts playing with Balbir Singh Sr in 1956 Olympics</a></strong></p>

<p>"It's a project where we're shooting with multiple athletes around the world and we're trying to sort of connect them in a really creative way," the Dutchman explained.</p>

<p>"The way we filmed this was a bit different to how we'd normally approach a project, because we were dealing with all these different locations. Because of travel restrictions everything was done remotely. Basically, it was all about me looking at the camera feed from my little room in Amsterdam. It's all about having really good communication."</p>

<p>The film itself stars a range of athletes. From the USA there are luminaries such as basketball player Matisse Thybulle, fencer Miles Chamley-Watson and skateboard sensations Zion Wright and Courage Adams. From Turkey, there's Taekwondo world champion Kübra Dağlı, while Chilean wingsuit flyer Sebastián Álvarez makes a special cameo skydiving from 10,000 feet in for a chess game against Tania Sachdev from India. Japanese stars including slackliner Haruki Kinoshita and esports player Kana Tani also feature.</p>

<p>Camera tricks make it seem as though Thybulle has gone from the comfort of his sofa straight onto a court, while wakeskate world champion Zuzana Vráblová from Slovakia appears to be dragged off her couch, out of her window and straight onto the water.</p>

<p>The result of all of that coordination and creative communication? A 14-minute clip like no other.</p>

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How 'Unlocking Creativity' brought athletes Matisse Thybulle, Miles Chamley-Watson, Tania Sachdev and more together on-screen – all from the director's apartment in Amsterdam.

How 'Unlocking Creativity' brought athletes Matisse Thybulle, Miles Chamley-Watson, Tania Sachdev and more together on-screen – all from the director's apartment in Amsterdam. Unlocking Creativity tells the story of athletes from all around the world in a film where they’re quickly thrown from the inside to the outside and finally back practicing the sport they love. Because of the various travel restrictions in place around the world, this global shoot was pulled off with its director calling the shots from his Amsterdam apartment. Erwin van den Ijssel would usually hand over instructions via a Bluetooth headset and regularly spoke through a giant speaker to the various crews on the ground. ALSO READ: Former Indian hockey forward Gurdev Singh recounts playing with Balbir Singh Sr in 1956 Olympics "It's a project where we're shooting with multiple athletes around the world and we're trying to sort of connect them in a really creative way," the Dutchman explained. "The way we filmed this was a bit different to how we'd normally approach a project, because we were dealing with all these different locations. Because of travel restrictions everything was done remotely. Basically, it was all about me looking at the camera feed from my little room in Amsterdam. It's all about having really good communication." The film itself stars a range of athletes. From the USA there are luminaries such as basketball player Matisse Thybulle, fencer Miles Chamley-Watson and skateboard sensations Zion Wright and Courage Adams. From Turkey, there's Taekwondo world champion Kübra Dağlı, while Chilean wingsuit flyer Sebastián Álvarez makes a special cameo skydiving from 10,000 feet in for a chess game against Tania Sachdev from India. Japanese stars including slackliner Haruki Kinoshita and esports player Kana Tani also feature. Camera tricks make it seem as though Thybulle has gone from the comfort of his sofa straight onto a court, while wakeskate world champion Zuzana Vráblová from Slovakia appears to be dragged off her couch, out of her window and straight onto the water. The result of all of that coordination and creative communication? A 14-minute clip like no other. ×

Indian chess star Tania Sachdev and host of athletes come together for global film like no other - Watch

<p>Vladimir Kramnik has been one of the greatest chess players in the world. Having achieved the Grandmaster norms in 1992, he became the youngest world number one in January 1996 and held the record for 14 years until Magnus Carlsen took the spot in January 2010.</p>

<p>Kramnik was also hailed for helping unify the chess world when he faced Veselin Topalov in the World Chess Championship 2006. He defeated Topalov to become the undisputed World Champion.</p>

<p>After announcing his professional retirement in January 2019, he shifted his focus to development projects particularly related to chess education for children.</p>

<p>International Master and Woman Grandmaster Tania Sachdev recently got Kramnik into an exclusive chat to ask him about his career and his mental approach to the game for an episode of the Mind Behind series. The Mind Behind is a cross-discipline series about the lives and careers of professionals across multiple streams. The series developed by Red Bull Media House features actors, chefs, comedians, dancers, filmmakers, musicians, sports personalities and many others, as part of exclusive one-on-one interviews.</p>

<p>Read on to know some interesting points revealed by Kramnik during the interview with Red Bull Athlete Tania Sachdev.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CBigm7uKEjk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Retired Grandmaster and World Chess Champion Vladimir Kramnik speaks with International Master @taniasachdev on the latest episode of The Mind Behind. Kramnik discusses his career, mental approach to the game, his match-ups with chess great Garry Kasparov, and more. #TheMindBehind #Chess #RedBullIndia</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/redbullindia/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Red Bull India</a> (@redbullindia) on <time datetime="2020-06-17T14:17:22+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 17, 2020 at 7:17am PDT</time></p>
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<h2>Beating Kasparov – an unexpected surprise</h2>

<p>Vladimir Kramnik beat chess legend Garry Kasparov in 2000 to become the Classical World Champion. In 2006, he beat Veselin Topalov to become the undisputed World Champion. He boasts three gold medals and three individual medals at Chess Olympiads. He is also tied-eight with Viswanathan Anand for all-time best chess ratings at 2817. Yet, when he looks back at his successful career, he thinks it was better than he expected because he did not think he had the talent to be the best. Kramnik says that he would have been happy being an average Grandmaster and that his world champion achievement was beyond expectations.</p>

<h2>Never be afraid of your opponent. Strong players can sense the fear</h2>

<p>While he says playing a chess great like Garry Kasparov – who was considered unbeatable in his prime – was an interesting challenge, Kramnik says that he was never afraid of going up against the best. He attributes this to his personality and a logically-strong mind. Kramnik says he doesn’t think like a sportsperson, so he doesn’t fear his opponent because it makes no sense to him intellectually, and this gave him a psychological edge over Kasparov. While Kramnik says he always respects his opponents, he says if he were to face world champion Magnus Carlsen today, he would not be afraid and give it his best.</p>

<p><img alt="Vladimir Kramnik" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6bde2d40-c927-49f0-be16-81c53020a40a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Par7538920.jpg" /></p>

<h2><strong>The accidental Karpov impact</strong></h2>

<p>When Kramnik was five years old, his father introduced him to chess. Seeing his interest in the game, his father gifted him a book on Anatoly Karpov’s best games. Kramnik studied this book day-and-night for a whole year, which became the foundation of his chess knowledge. He attributes his positional style of play to these learnings from Karpov’s book. Later, he studied in a chess school established by Mikhail Botvinnik, where he polished up his chess skills and went on to have a successful career.</p>

<h2>A predictable style of play can make one a target</h2>

<p>Kramnik faced Kasparov for the world championship in a best-of-16- match. Kramnik won the match with two wins, 13 draws and no losses – inflicting Kasparov’s first-ever world championship defeat. While Kasparov is often considered one of the greatest players of all time, Kramnik has been following his style of play since childhood and says he was able to predict everything that Kasparov would do in their match. Kramnik says that while most believe and see Kasparov’s style as experimental, for Kramnik it was predictable. Kramnik knew the choices that Kasparov would make over the board, the openings, and the positions he would aim for. Kramnik says Kasparov strictly follows patterns of play and that made him easy to read during their championship match.</p>

<h2>Karpov-Kasparov world championship match 1984: an epic title battle</h2>

<p>While Kramnik has been part of some interesting world championship matches against the likes of Garry Kasparov, Peter Leko, Veselin Topalov and Viswanathan Anand, he most enjoyed watching Kasparov versus Anatoly Karpov in 1984. Kramnik was 12 years old when this match was started and intently studying to become a professional chess player. The world championship match started in 1984 as a first-to-six-wins format but was abandoned without result. It was restarted as a best-of-24 match in 1985, and eventually won by Kasparov. Kramnik says he remembers the first match of 1984 as his favourite because he travelled to Moscow to watch it in the Hall of Columns – the first time he travelled out of his region – and was very impressed by the grandeur of the occasion. It steeled his resolve to become a professional chess player.</p>

<p><em>(Courtesy: Red Bull)</em></p>


Vladimir Kramnik has been one of the greatest chess players in the world. Having achieved the Grandmaster norms in 1992, he became the youngest world number one in January 1996 and held the record for 14 years until Magnus Carlsen took the spot in January 2010.

Vladimir Kramnik has been one of the greatest chess players in the world. Having achieved the Grandmaster norms in 1992, he became the youngest world number one in January 1996 and held the record for 14 years until Magnus Carlsen took the spot in January 2010. Kramnik was also hailed for helping unify the chess world when he faced Veselin Topalov in the World Chess Championship 2006. He defeated Topalov to become the undisputed World Champion. After announcing his professional retirement in January 2019, he shifted his focus to development projects particularly related to chess education for children. International Master and Woman Grandmaster Tania Sachdev recently got Kramnik into an exclusive chat to ask him about his career and his mental approach to the game for an episode of the Mind Behind series. The Mind Behind is a cross-discipline series about the lives and careers of professionals across multiple streams. The series developed by Red Bull Media House features actors, chefs, comedians, dancers, filmmakers, musicians, sports personalities and many others, as part of exclusive one-on-one interviews. Read on to know some interesting points revealed by Kramnik during the interview with Red Bull Athlete Tania Sachdev. View this post on Instagram Retired Grandmaster and World Chess Champion Vladimir Kramnik speaks with International Master @taniasachdev on the latest episode of The Mind Behind. Kramnik discusses his career, mental approach to the game, his match-ups with chess great Garry Kasparov, and more. #TheMindBehind #Chess #RedBullIndia A post shared by Red Bull India (@redbullindia) on Jun 17, 2020 at 7:17am PDT × Beating Kasparov – an unexpected surprise Vladimir Kramnik beat chess legend Garry Kasparov in 2000 to become the Classical World Champion. In 2006, he beat Veselin Topalov to become the undisputed World Champion. He boasts three gold medals and three individual medals at Chess Olympiads. He is also tied-eight with Viswanathan Anand for all-time best chess ratings at 2817. Yet, when he looks back at his successful career, he thinks it was better than he expected because he did not think he had the talent to be the best. Kramnik says that he would have been happy being an average Grandmaster and that his world champion achievement was beyond expectations. Never be afraid of your opponent. Strong players can sense the fear While he says playing a chess great like Garry Kasparov – who was considered unbeatable in his prime – was an interesting challenge, Kramnik says that he was never afraid of going up against the best. He attributes this to his personality and a logically-strong mind. Kramnik says he doesn’t think like a sportsperson, so he doesn’t fear his opponent because it makes no sense to him intellectually, and this gave him a psychological edge over Kasparov. While Kramnik says he always respects his opponents, he says if he were to face world champion Magnus Carlsen today, he would not be afraid and give it his best. The accidental Karpov impact When Kramnik was five years old, his father introduced him to chess. Seeing his interest in the game, his father gifted him a book on Anatoly Karpov’s best games. Kramnik studied this book day-and-night for a whole year, which became the foundation of his chess knowledge. He attributes his positional style of play to these learnings from Karpov’s book. Later, he studied in a chess school established by Mikhail Botvinnik, where he polished up his chess skills and went on to have a successful career. A predictable style of play can make one a target Kramnik faced Kasparov for the world championship in a best-of-16- match. Kramnik won the match with two wins, 13 draws and no losses – inflicting Kasparov’s first-ever world championship defeat. While Kasparov is often considered one of the greatest players of all time, Kramnik has been following his style of play since childhood and says he was able to predict everything that Kasparov would do in their match. Kramnik says that while most believe and see Kasparov’s style as experimental, for Kramnik it was predictable. Kramnik knew the choices that Kasparov would make over the board, the openings, and the positions he would aim for. Kramnik says Kasparov strictly follows patterns of play and that made him easy to read during their championship match. Karpov-Kasparov world championship match 1984: an epic title battle While Kramnik has been part of some interesting world championship matches against the likes of Garry Kasparov, Peter Leko, Veselin Topalov and Viswanathan Anand, he most enjoyed watching Kasparov versus Anatoly Karpov in 1984. Kramnik was 12 years old when this match was started and intently studying to become a professional chess player. The world championship match started in 1984 as a first-to-six-wins format but was abandoned without result. It was restarted as a best-of-24 match in 1985, and eventually won by Kasparov. Kramnik says he remembers the first match of 1984 as his favourite because he travelled to Moscow to watch it in the Hall of Columns – the first time he travelled out of his region – and was very impressed by the grandeur of the occasion. It steeled his resolve to become a professional chess player. (Courtesy: Red Bull)

What Tania Sachdev discovered about Vladimir Kramnik on The Mind Behind

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What Tania Sachdev discovered about Vladimir Kramnik on The Mind Behind