Hello, my name is Praveen Sagar and I’m an Arena Grand Master and a Chess Coach / Partner at Mind Mentorz Chess Academy. I’m also a very passionate chess player. I recently participated in the Bangalore International Grandmaster Chess Tournament 2024, where I secured the 23rd position and the Karnataka Best Player award. It was a thrilling and challenging experience, and I am proud of my performance. My final score was 7.5/10 where I secured 7 wins, 3 draws and only 1 loss.\
Some of the questions that I often get asked about my chess journey are:
1. How did you get interested in chess?
I learned chess from my father when I was six years old. He taught me the basic rules and strategies, and we used to play regularly. I enjoyed the game and its intellectual aspects. I also joined a chess club in my school and competed in various tournaments. I was fascinated by the legends of chess, such as Bobby Fischer, Garry Kasparov, and Viswanathan Anand, and I wanted to emulate their style and achievements.
2. How do you balance your work and chess?
It is not easy, but I try to manage my time and priorities. I work hard at my job, but I also make sure to take some breaks and relax. I play chess online or with my friends whenever I get some free time. I also watch chess videos and read chess books to improve my skills and knowledge. I follow the latest news and developments in the chess world, and I analyze the games of the top players. I also practice with chess puzzles and endgame studies to sharpen my tactical and positional abilities.
3. What do you attribute your success to, especially in being named Karnataka’s Best Player?
Success in chess is a culmination of various factors – disciplined training, a strategic mindset, and a deep understanding of the game. Being recognized as Karnataka’s Best Player in this tournament is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of the chess culture thriving in the state.
4. What are your goals and aspirations as a chess player?
I want to inspire and mentor other chess players, especially the young ones, and share my passion and experience with them. I have been a chess coach for over 10 years, and I have helped many students achieve their potential and improve their ratings. Chess is more than just a game for me. It is a way of life, a source of joy, and a means of expression. I hope to continue playing and coaching chess for as long as I can, and to contribute to the growth and popularity of this beautiful sport.
Conclusion:
Chess has taught me many valuable lessons, such as patience, discipline, logic, and strategy. It has also helped me develop my memory, focus, and problem-solving skills. Chess has given me the opportunity to meet and interact with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and ages. It has also opened my eyes to the beauty and complexity of the game, and the endless possibilities that it offers.
I believe that chess can benefit anyone who plays it, regardless of their level, age, or profession. Chess can improve one’s mental health, creativity, and confidence. Chess can also be a fun and relaxing activity, a way to escape from the stress and worries of everyday life. Chess can also be a source of friendship, community, and inspiration.
That is why I love chess, and why I want to share it with others. I want to help people discover the joy and benefits of chess, and to support them in their chess journey. I want to make chess more accessible, inclusive, and popular. I want to make chess a part of everyone’s life.
