How and when did you get interested in chess?
I first became interested in chess in June 2022, when I was in Class 9 at Tilingatar Secondary School in Nepal. Earlier, I had watched the South Indian movie Check, which impressed me a lot, but at that time I didn't even know how the pieces moved. Later, when my teacher announced that our school would join a chess tournament, I immediately remembered that movie and felt inspired to learn.
Since I didn't know the rules, I asked my friend Ascharya, who had an Elo of about 1355, to teach me. He introduced me to the basics and helped me understand the game. That's how my chess journey started – from being a complete beginner to developing a real passion for the game.
What in chess does attract you most?
What attracts me most in chess is the combination of strategy and tactics. I enjoy the way every move has a purpose and how long-term planning connects with short tactical ideas. I also like the competitive side, because it challenges me to stay focused and improve myself with every game. For me, chess is not just about winning, but also about thinking creatively, solving problems, and testing my patience.
How often do you play chess?
Mainly I play from my Lauttasaari chess club as my club provide me this golden opportunity.
How do you train chess?
I regularly train chess nowadays. I get help from my Finnish Fide master friend and help from ChessBase India and Remote Chess Academy as well.
Do you have a favorite opening or variation?
Yes, I do have a favorite opening. The first trap I ever learned was the Blackburne Gambit, and because of that it has a special place for me. I don't usually play it in serious tournaments, but I like trying it in casual games because it reminds me of my early days in chess and how exciting it felt to discover traps and tricks for the first time.
Your chess goals, or do you play mainly for fun?
I started playing chess mainly for fun and to take part in beginner tournaments. But later, when I watched the Chess Olympiad in Chennai through ChessBase India's YouTube channel, I felt really inspired. I thought it would be amazing to be there one day, representing my country. From that moment, my goal became not just to enjoy chess, but also to work hard and someday play the Chess Olympiad for Nepal.
Experiences from chess competitions
Yes, I have participated in chess competitions, and the biggest lesson I have learned is the importance of staying fully present in every moment. In chess, even a single mistake can turn a winning position into a loss, and sometimes a lost position can be saved if the opponent makes a blunder. Because of this, I've realized that I cannot relax until the very end of the game – concentration and patience are everything.
Your most memorable or instructive chess game?
For me, my first chess tournament game is the most memorable one, even though I lost as Black. I was quite happy to survive until move 35, especially because I had learned the basics of chess only about 30 days earlier in Nepal. That game gave me confidence and motivation to keep improving.
Do you admire some chess player?
I don't really try to copy anyone's playing style – I prefer to play my own natural game. But I do admire D. Gukesh, who has become my idol. The first time I followed the Chess Olympiad in Chennai, livestreamed by Sagar Shah from ChessBase India, Gukesh was playing on Board 1. He kept winning game after game, and I was impressed not only by his strength but also by how quiet and humble he was. That's when I became a fan of him.
Have chess skills helped your everyday life?
Yes, chess has helped me a lot in everyday life. It has trained me to solve critical problems and improved my quick decision-making skills. Chess also taught me to think carefully on both the positive and negative sides before starting anything, which has been very useful beyond the board.
Activities you expect from a chess club?
For me, a chess club should organize regular tournaments, just like our Lauttasaari club does. I also think it would be very helpful if the club had a chess coach to guide both beginners and intermediate players.
