University Days : The first year

Back in 2014, when I took admission at NIT Srinagar there was an announcement for trials where the freshers were invited to be a part of our University semester Chess team.

Although I never planned about any of the following events that occurred, my attention was caught on this notice and I decided to give this a try.

During the trial, there were 5 rounds in total where I was disqualified in the 4th round. My? seniors then guided me that there are theories and concepts related to each move we play in Chess and so I was introduced to this formal learning of the game.

I adhered to their advice and during our almost 2.5 months long winter break, I decided to stay focused on the game. I ordered a few books on chess as well. My first read was My System by Aron Nimzowitsch.

Initially, I tried to comprehend how chess books are supposed to be assimilated. The first step was to analyse the notations (as the chess books are quite different from regular books we read). I kept on reading books and growing my knowledge for end-games.

Gradually I was able to understand the concepts and started solving the puzzles. During the college mid-semester break I used to practice 8 hrs daily over the board.

I believe that it all starts with passion. Passion is a powerful force in accomplishing anything you set your mind to, and in experiencing work and life the fullest extent possible.

That is exactly what was happening with me. I used to spend much more time with my seniors in learning and playing than attending my regular academic classes. I knew from my gut feeling that this game is doable and interesting.

After the first fruitful break was over, I played again with the team members of my Semester Chess team but this time with a huge difference. I went on to win against all the players that were then selected in the Semester team and in a big turnaround, I ended up becoming the Captain of the team.

Then came the Inter-Semesters, I played a 4 hour draw with white pieces against my then University captain.?

This journey was 4 long years of having good supportive seniors. I acknowledged the power of networking and finally ended up being the University captain myself.

Well, it is true,

"You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want" -- Zig Ziglar

This is my goal towards Chess. I want to build a community for Chess in the early age group of kids and youngsters so that they can reach the heights where they can lead India worldwide over this game in the coming years.

Cheers to Chess and Cheers to everyone who is madly in love with this game.

The next article comes next week, stay tuned....