Meet Pramod Rao, a former VP of Zomato and current student of Chess Gaja who embarked on a chess journey at the age of 40. In a heartfelt conversation with Grand Master Priyadharshan Kannappan, Pramod shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs in learning chess as an adult.
This blog post dives deep into his thoughts on decision-making, routine, and how chess has impacted his life.
Finding Chess Later in Life
Pramod’s journey into chess began not in childhood, but rather during a significant career transition. As he approached his 40th birthday, he took time to reflect on his interests and aspirations for the years ahead. This introspection led him to rediscover chess, a game he had always been curious about but never fully engaged with.
He had always had a couple of chessboards at home, but they were more of a decorative presence than an active part of his life. Now, with a desire for a sport he could pursue for years, Pramod decided it was time to dive in deeper. He found Chess Gaja and was impressed by the flexibility and support from the team, which made it easier for him to start his lessons.
Breaking Stereotypes: Adult Learners in Chess
Chess Gaja has a motto: “Chess players of all levels and ages.” This tagline is particularly relevant as they are keen to promote adult chess learning in India. While most students are children, adult learners like Pramod represent a growing segment of the chess community.
Pramod highlighted how the recent popularity of chess in media could have influenced his decision to pick up the game. With the rise of chess influencers and tournaments, he felt inspired to join the community. The realization that chess is a game without physical limits made it an appealing choice for him.
Time Commitment and Routine
So, how much time does Pramod dedicate to chess? He admits that while he doesn’t have a strict routine, he spends about an hour a day playing and analyzing games. He also attends coaching sessions three times a week, which helps him apply what he learns.
He emphasizes the importance of practice, stating that he tries to play every day to reinforce his learning. This consistency is crucial as he seeks to improve his skills and understanding of the game.
Learning from the Masters
Pramod has also started following top chess games, especially during tournaments. While he doesn’t watch every game, he finds it exciting to see how the best players navigate complex situations. This exposure is vital for any learner, as it helps to understand high-level strategies and tactics.
Chess and Decision Making
One of the most profound insights Pramod gained from learning chess is its impact on decision-making. He believes that chess enhances one’s ability to make decisions under constraints. Each move requires consideration of not just one’s own strategy but also anticipating the opponent’s responses.
He reflected on how his initial defensive approach in chess evolved into a more aggressive style, thanks to guidance from his coach. This shift not only made his games more exciting but also improved his performance.
Connecting Chess to Real-Life Scenarios
Pramod shared that chess has helped him develop skills that are transferable to his professional life, especially in the startup world. In both chess and startups, one often has to make quick decisions with limited information. He highlighted the importance of calculated intuition, where one must weigh risks before making a call.
Analyzing Games: A Learning Tool
During the interview, Pramod and Grandmaster Priyadharshan analyzed one of Pramod’s recent games. This exercise provided insight into his thought process during critical moments of the game. Pramod noted how he has become more aware of his decisions and their consequences over time.
Challenges Faced by Adult Learners
Pramod candidly discussed the unique challenges adult learners face in chess. Adapting to a new mindset and being open to taking risks can be difficult for adults who have established ways of thinking over the years. He recognized that children are often more flexible and willing to experiment, while adults might find it challenging to unlearn old habits.
Marketing Chess: The Future
Having spent years in marketing, Pramod shared his thoughts on how chess could be marketed better. He believes there should be more visibility and engagement from corporate entities, schools, and communities. Initiatives like corporate tournaments and community chess parks could foster greater interest in the game.
The Joy of Chess
Despite the challenges, Pramod is enjoying his chess journey. He finds the game beautiful and appreciates the learning opportunities it provides. Each game is a chance to grow, both as a player and as a person.
Final Thoughts
As Pramod continues on his chess journey, he hopes to reach higher ratings and improve his skills further. His story is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to learn something new. Whether you’re 8 or 80, chess offers endless possibilities for growth and enjoyment.
Watch the full video here
Join us as we follow more inspiring stories in the chess community, and remember: every move is a learning opportunity!
At Chess Gaja Academy, we believe it’s never too late to start your chess journey. Whether you’re a young prodigy or someone embracing the game later in life like Pramod Rao, our academy offers personalized training programs tailored to every skill level and age group. With a team of experienced coaches and a supportive learning environment, we’re here to help you discover the joy of chess and unlock your full potential—one move at a time. Join us and become a part of our growing global chess community!
