The journey of Indian chess player R. Vaishali from a young enthusiast to a Women’s World Championship challenger has been marked by discipline, resilience, and strong mentorship, according to her long-time coach R.B. Ramesh. Having trained her for over a decade, Ramesh offered insights into both her professional growth and personal character, highlighting the sustained effort behind her rise on the global stage.
Recalling a recent tournament in Cyprus where Vaishali was on the brink of a major victory, Ramesh described an emotional moment when he arrived just in time to witness her stepping onto the stage. The moment reflected the culmination of years of hard work and shared commitment between coach and player. According to him, such milestones represent not just competitive success but also the emotional weight of a long journey.
Ramesh traced the origins of this journey back to 2014, when he first connected with Vaishali’s family. Recognising the potential in both Vaishali and her younger brother R Praggnanandhaa, he agreed to train them. What followed was an intense daily routine, with the siblings travelling long distances to attend training sessions that spanned most of the day. Their disciplined schedule and commitment to practice played a crucial role in shaping their careers.
The coach emphasised the strong work ethic demonstrated by both players, noting their willingness to dedicate long hours without excuses. He also acknowledged the role of their early mentor Thiyagrajan in instilling a deep passion for the game, crediting him for laying a solid foundation that later training could build upon.
Discussing Vaishali’s playing style, Ramesh highlighted a balance between technical strength and emotional sensitivity. While capable of high-level positional play, she has at times been affected by the psychological pressures of competition. To address this, the support team adopted measures to maintain a positive environment during crucial tournaments, including involving fellow player Pranesh M to help ease tension and keep morale high.
Beyond competitive ability, Ramesh pointed to Vaishali’s integrity as a defining trait. He recalled instances where she chose fairness over potential advantage, underlining her adherence to ethical standards in the sport. This, he suggested, sets her apart in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Ramesh also highlighted the importance of family support in her journey, noting that her parents maintained trust in the training process and avoided interference in technical decisions. This collaborative dynamic between player, coach, and family created a stable environment for growth.
As Vaishali prepares to face reigning world champion Ju Wenjun, Ramesh acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed confidence in her readiness. He indicated that her progression reflects years of preparation and belief, adding that both Vaishali and her brother have long carried the ambition of reaching the pinnacle of world chess.
Originally published in Dweep Tulika, Volume IX, Issue No. 1.
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