In chess, strategy, intellect and unwavering focus reign supreme. Lakshit Pusri has emerged as a formidable force, captivating the attention of chess enthusiasts across the state of Punjab. He is a true prodigy and rising star, who recently clinched victory in a state-level championship. The class 7 student of Apeejay School, Model Town in Jalandhar won the second prize along with INR 3100 cash prize in the Under-17 category organised by Chess Yudh in the city. Now, he has his sights firmly set on a highly anticipated National championship scheduled for this year in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
Mastering the art
Lakshit’s journey to chess excellence has been a testament to his unwavering determination and unyielding commitment. Over the past five years, he has poured countless hours into training, honing his skills, and mastering the complexities of the game. This exceptional student has demonstrated true grit and an unshakable work ethic, all while balancing the demands of academics. He says, “I am learning from Mr Kanwarjeet Singh who teaches in Apeejay School, Model Town. He has helped me ace the game. Every day, I put in 5-6 hours. I believe that the sport relaxes me very much.”
From a young age, Lakshit exhibited a natural affinity for the game. He was captivated by the chessboard, its intricate pieces, and the immense depth of strategic possibilities that lay within. Recognising his potential, Lakshit’s mother enrolled him in formal classes, where he began his arduous journey towards chess mastery. The proud mother, Ms Seema Pusri shares, “My son loves the sport. Recently, he participated in a senior chess championship too where he bagged the third prize. Why we started at this sport in the first place was to make him learn things beyond the gadgets. I wanted for him to increase his brain power and thinking ability. Now, it is impossible to detach him from the game.”
Practice is the key to perfect game
Under the guidance of his mentor, Lakshit’s talent flourished. His intense dedication saw him spending countless hours studying renowned chess games, analysing tactics, and refining his own gameplay. The young prodigy embraced the challenges and setbacks that came his way, using them as stepping stones to improve and evolve as a player. His breakthrough came at the recent state-level championship, where he demonstrated his exceptional skills, tactical acumen, and composure under pressure. With each move, he showcased his profound understanding of the game, outwitting opponents with a brilliant combination of aggression and precision. His remarkable performance earned him the prestigious title.
Preparing for the upcoming National Championship, Lakshit remains unfazed by the weight of expectations. He continues to work diligently. “Currently, I am practicing for about 7-8 hours a day and working towards my areas of improvement,” says the champ. The young chess prodigy is truly an inspiration to his peers, proving that success comes to those who dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to their passions.
Lakshit’s achievements are not merely a result of talent; they are a testament to his unrelenting perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering belief in his abilities. Further, he seeks inspiration from people like Hikaru Nakamura, the American chess grandmaster and Viswanathan Anand, the Indian chess grandmaster. His favourite move in the game is the King’s Gambit.
The next move
As the National championship approaches, the chess community eagerly awaits the arrival of Lakshit Pusri. His journey thus far has been one of relentless hard work, and it is his determination that sets him apart. With his strategic brilliance and unwavering focus, there is little doubt that Lakshit will leave an indelible mark on the national stage. Highlighting the role of his teachers in his journey, Ms Pusri says, “The school has been extremely supportive of our endeavours. Its teachers have taken utmost care of my son’s academics. He is doing well at his subjects despite having to miss classes during his tournaments.” In future, the achiever dreams to become an Indian Police Service officer.
Win or lose, Lakshit’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of grit and the pursuit of excellence. He is truly a chess champion in the making and his future is undoubtedly bright.