Chola Chess Academy: Nurturing India’s Future Grandmasters

Chola Chess is a CSR platform that identifies and develops young chess talent by providing coaching and support through free in-person chess camps.

In July 2025, Chola Chess Academy made its debut as a visionary CSR initiative by Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company. This pioneering program is committed to identifying, nurturing, and empowering India’s young chess talentos through comprehensive, high-impact support and training

Whether you’re a promising young player aiming for the global stage, a parent searching for elite chess education, or simply inspired by a powerful developmental journey—Chola Chess stands out as an institution with purpose and impact.

Origins & Vision: A CSR Initiative with a Grand Vision

Born from the CSR arm of Cholamandalam—Chola Foundation—Chola Chess is the collective dream of building champions not just in chess, but in life. Through a mentorship under GM R. B. Ramesh the initiative blends expert coaching with character-building values to create future-ready individuals

As the academy states, its mission is to help India’s future Grandmasters grow in skill, strategy and spirit—with a vision that extends beyond the board, aiming to shape disciplined, resilient leaders for tomorrow

How It Works: Elite Training, Zero Cost

Chola Chess opens its doors wide, offering:

• 5-7 day in-person camps, free of cost
• Free, post-camp online coaching
• Mental strength training and daily fitness
• Communication and Nutrition workshops

Who can apply? Especially gifted youngsters, such as:

• Top 10 nationally ranked players in India in each age group
• Top 10 players by FIDE rating in each age group as of December 2024
• High performers in reputed international, commonwealth or national tournaments

Launch Highlights & Leadership Voices

The academy was officially launched at the Chola Chess Centre in Chennai, where GM Viswanathan Anand delivered an inspiring keynote address, offering both gravitas and encouragement.

GM R. B. Ramesh emphasized that Chola Chess isn’t merely about producing Grandmasters—it’s about nurturing confident, strategic thinkers equipped with discipline and resilience.

Vellayan Subbiah, Executive Chairman of Chola, spoke passionately about transforming the growing youth chess enthusiasm into a structured, high-quality national training ecosystem.

Building Momentum: Quick Impact and Expanding Reach

The academy’s growth trajectory has been remarkable. Since early 2025, over 36 chess camps have already been conducted—a testimony to swift organization and strong demand (instagram.com).

Unlocking Potential: Why Chola Chess Matters

1. Removal of cost barriers: By providing free, high-level camps and coaching, Chola Chess ensures access to quality development for top talent, irrespective of financial means.

2. Holistic athlete formation: Mental strength, fitness, nutrition, and communication are woven into the curriculum—an approach that shapes well-rounded individuals as much as strong competitors.

3. Expert-led mentorship: Under the guidance of GM R. B. Ramesh team, participants benefit from elite-level training rooted in years of experience.

4. Broad talent scouting: Through national ranking and FIDE-rated criteria, the initiative reaches high-potential youth across India, opening pathways even for grassroots talents.

Getting Involved: Join the Movement

• Eligibility check: If you rank in the top 10 nationally or by FIDE in your age group (as of Dec 2024), or have excelled in major chess tournaments, you may qualify.
• Apply via: Chola Chess Membership form, detailing tournament background and coaching needs.
• If selected, you’ll attend a 5–7 day in-person camp and receive follow-up coaching—all at no cost.

Notable Players of Chola Chess Academy

Chola Chess Academy takes pride in nurturing some of the most promising young chess talents in India.

Conclusion: A Catalyst for India’s Chess Future

Chola Chess Academy isn’t just training players; it’s nurturing India’s next wave of grandmasters—and future citizens of confidence, strategy, and endurance. By merging elite chess instruction with life skill development, the initiative is setting a new gold standard in talent growth.

For young chess stars and their families—this is an opportunity to chart a course toward excellence, supported by a program designed to elevate both skill and spirit.

Learn more and apply today at CholaChess.com.

Chess Gaja – Know more about the author of this article

Chess Gaja is an online chess academy founded by Grandmaster and FIDE Trainer Priyadharshan Kannappan, who boasts a USCF rating of 2632 and a FIDE rating of 2553. Chess Gaja offers unparalleled expertise and guidance with a distinguished coaching background. We have taught over 1,500 students from more than 15 countries. Our students range from beginners to advanced players and come from all ages, learning chess both seriously and as a hobby. We strive to create an environment where learning chess is fun and enjoyable. We firmly believe that chess can nourish the human brain and enhance decision-making skills.

Grandmaster Priyadharshan has a distinguished track record in chess coaching, having trained the Indian Sub-Junior Team at the 2019 Chess Olympiad and the Brazil National Team at the 2022 Chess Olympiad. He is currently coaching both the Eritrean and Mauritian Teams in the upcoming 2024 Chess Olympiad. His extensive experience and expertise continue to shape and elevate teams on the international stage.

Join Chess Gaja today to refine your skills, unlock your potential, and step confidently into the world of competitive chess!

Stay ahead in the world of chess with Chess Gaja, your premier online chess academy for high-performance training.