Dominating the Board: Jalandhar boy makes it big at chess

In the world of academic excellence and remarkable sporting achievements, young talent often emerges as a shining beacon of inspiration. One such prodigious individual is Lakshit Pusri, a student of class VII at Apeejay School, Model Town, Jalandhar. His recent accomplishments have drawn attention and admiration, as he clinched the second position in the fiercely competitive PSEB State-level chess competition. He proudly secured the first position and gold medal at the esteemed Punjab Khed Mela, outperforming contestants from all 23 districts. However, these achievements are not isolated instances; Lakshit’s dedication and passion for the game have propelled him to triumph nearly hundred trophies, making him a name to reckon with in the world of chess. Here are some excerpts from an interview with him. Read on.

What inspired you to start playing chess?

My interest in chess was sparked by my mother, who is a chess player herself. She encouraged me to start playing it when I was in the first grade, and it’s been six years since I began this journey. Initially, I was involved in dance, but over time, my passion shifted towards chess. Consequently, I enrolled in evening classes at the chess academy of our school.

What goes through your mind when you’re making moves on the board during a game?

In the game of chess, every move requires meticulous calculation of lines and variations, often leading to considerable time spent on a single move. During a game, my mind is predominantly occupied with this task.

Were there any specific strategies that you used in the tournament?

In chess, the tactics used by players are hard to predict, and there’s no single strategy that works in every situation. Doing well in this game requires practicing regularly, usually for 4-5 hours each day, to get better at dealing with different situations during the game.

In what ways has playing chess enhanced your mental abilities?

It has significantly enhanced my concentration and cognitive abilities. Being a mental sport, it has sharpened my overall brain function and aided my academic performance, which is crucial as my studies sometimes take a backseat due to chess tournaments. Overall, chess has improved my learning skills.

Can you describe your preparation routine leading up to the competition?

A typical day for me involves arriving home from school, studying, and then immersing myself in chess practice, often with my mother’s support. I begin by working on my opening techniques and then tackle puzzles to stimulate my brain. I practice various techniques through online games and engage in physical activities like exercising, cycling, and, occasionally, yoga. These routines help me stay physically and mentally fit.

Do you have any other championships lined up?

I am currently preparing for the upcoming national championship in January, aiming to increase my rating and be fully prepared for the tough competition. In addition, I have a district tournament in Sangrur scheduled for this month.

Who is your biggest inspiration from the world of chess?

Magnus Carlsen from Norway, Hikaru Nakamura from the USA, and Viswanathan Anand from India. I closely analyse and follow their games to enhance my own skills.

How do you handle the pressure during tournaments?

Before tournaments, I follow a routine to keep my mind refreshed. I find that chocolate is particularly helpful in this regard. I also carry dry fruits to keep my energy levels up. Additionally, I make an effort to meditate for some time before each match.

What was it like to win this championship?

Participating in the Punjab State-level Championship for the first time was a delightful experience. I competed in the Under-17 category at the age of 12. It was a moment of great pride.