Chess passes through the golden era in India. With the World Champion, World Cup winners and junior champions that emerged from the ground, the Indian chess is on the rise like never before. However, sport needs a strong local level foundation to maintain this momentum. In a small village in the district of Gujarat in Mahisagar, one teacher took on himself to build this base.
In Ratusin on Muvada, almost every child at the local government’s elementary school learns the art of chess, thanks to 45 -year -old mathematics and Gujarati Sandip UPPAPHYAY. For him, chess is not just a game, but a tool for focusing young minds and expanding opportunities.
Upadhyay exceeded classroom duties to support this passion. He bought 125 chess, 35 timers and several chess books from his own salary. He even translated the Magnus method by Emmanuel Neiman into Gujarati so that local students had access to advanced chess knowledge in their mother tongue.
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Liability
The UPphyay’s philosophy is simple but powerful: “I have a rule. A small percentage of my salary will be devoted to children. I earn because of children, so they have the right.” He even launched confidence to ensure that this initiative continues to sustain. Importantly, it insists that academics are never at risk. “During the holidays we go to school and help children study chess,” he explains.
Success on the album
The results are already visible. In 2023, 14 of his students were selected for chess programs in the district, followed by seven other in 2024. These programs provide free education, training and accommodation of the hostel and open the door to a clearer future.
While not every child can grow up as a great master, the fallen believes that the value of chess is far beyond the competition. It creates focus, analytical thinking and resistance – transport necessary for life.
Thanks to his unwavering determination, Sandip Upalyay not only popularized chess in his village, but also created a model for the development of sports sports in India. His vision ensures that the next generation of chess stars can outline from Gujarat’s classrooms.
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Published:
Sabyasachi Chowdhury
Published on:
September 11, 2025
