International FIDE Rated Chess Coach | Structured Curriculum | 7+ Years Experience | 200+ Students Trained

Find out more about Ajay

• Tell us more about your subject. How did you develop an interest in this field?

  Chess is a fascinating strategic board game that teaches patience, discipline, and clear thinking. My interest in chess started at a young age when I discovered how a simple board with 64 squares could create endless possibilities. As I continued playing and learning, I realised that chess is not only about winning games but also about improving the way we think and make decisions. Over time, this interest naturally turned into a passion for teaching. Sharing the beauty of chess and watching students develop confidence and clarity in their thinking is what makes teaching truly rewarding for me.
  
  
  
  Over the years, I have had the opportunity to teach more than 200 students from different parts of the world, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Dubai, Singapore, Australia, and Kuwait. Currently, I teach around 47 students regularly, and about 20 of them are already federated players, which has been a very fulfilling journey as a coach.

• What or who is the motivation behind you choosing to teach & why?

  My biggest motivation is the joy of seeing students improve. I especially enjoy teaching children because their curiosity and creativity make every lesson unique. When a student understands a new idea, solves a difficult puzzle, or wins a game they previously couldn’t win, it is very satisfying. Chess helps children develop concentration, patience, and problem-solving skills, and seeing these positive changes in them is what keeps me motivated to continue teaching.

• How does your work help society?

  Chess develops many skills that are useful in everyday life. Through chess, students learn how to think ahead, analyse situations carefully, remain calm under pressure, and make responsible decisions. These abilities help them not only in chess but also in academics and later in their professional lives. As a tutor, I believe I contribute by helping young minds become more disciplined, confident, and thoughtful in the way they approach challenges.

• If you had to think of a role model for your work, who do you think of & why?

  My role model is Viswanathan Anand. He has played a huge role in popularising chess in India and inspiring an entire generation of players. His calm personality, deep understanding of the game, and humility despite his achievements are qualities I admire greatly. He showed that with dedication and discipline it is possible to reach the highest level while still inspiring others to follow the same path.

• Tell us about your hobbies outside teaching.

  Outside teaching, I enjoy reading books related to self-development and psychology because they help me better understand how people learn and think. This knowledge also helps me become a more effective teacher. In my free time I also enjoy playing outdoor sports like cricket and occasionally table tennis.

• Do you have an anecdote to tell us about your student or professional life?

  One experience I often share is about a very talented young student I once coached who came from a small town where access to proper chess guidance was limited. When I first started working with him, we spent many hours building his fundamentals and understanding of the game. Over time his dedication and hard work paid off — he eventually reached a FIDE rating of around 1875 and went on to become a national champion. Seeing that transformation was extremely rewarding for me as a coach. Moments like these remind me that with the right guidance and consistent effort, every student has the potential to grow far beyond their starting point.