What Does Praggnanandhaa Do in His Free Time?
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Synopsis
Discover how India's chess prodigy R. Praggnanandhaa balances his intense chess career with leisure activities like Jenga. His insights on focus and nerves reveal the mind of a champion. Join us as we explore his journey and the impact he’s making in the chess world.
Key Takeaways
- Praggnanandhaa balances chess with leisure activities.
- His win at the Tata Masters signifies his growing prowess.
- He acknowledges the importance of focus and nerve in different games.
- Participation in the GCT Final highlights India’s chess influence.
- He is a key player in the Global Chess League draft.
New Delhi, Sep 25 (NationPress) India’s chess sensation R. Praggnanandhaa enjoys his leisure time playing Jenga and remarked that while chess demands concentration, Jenga challenges his composure.
The game of chess in India has seen a remarkable rise in interest over the last few years, a trend amplified by the nation’s recent triumphs in global competitions.
Recently, Praggnanandhaa clinched victory at the Tata Masters this year, marking a pivotal moment in his ongoing rivalry with World Champion D. Gukesh, as they faced off in a thrilling tiebreaker.
On Thursday, Praggnanandhaa took a moment to relax by playing Jenga. He shared a video on X, stating:
“While chess requires focus, Jenga also tests your nerves. It's wonderful to let loose and share laughs with friends during my downtime.”
Praggnanandhaa recently secured his position in the prestigious Grand Chess Tour (GCT) Final in Brazil, finishing as the runner-up at the 2025 Sinquefield Cup, further cementing his status among the elite players worldwide.
His rapid rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his bold strategies and ability to challenge top contenders, he has become a prominent figure in Indian sports. His journey to the GCT Final not only marks a personal milestone but also showcases India’s growing presence in the international chess arena.
In recent times, the young talent has consistently impressed against chess legends like Magnus Carlsen, earning him widespread recognition. As he approaches the season finale, expectations are high, and fans are eager to see him achieve yet another significant milestone.
Praggnanandhaa is participating in the Global Chess League Season 3 draft taking place in Mumbai on Friday. Among 36 players in the pool, the 20-year-old will be one of the Icon players, with reigning World Champion Gukesh leading the Icon Boards.
Other notable players alongside Pragg include five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana, Alireza Firouzja, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, Anish Giri, Arjun Erigaisi, four-time world champion Hou Yifan, and World Cup finalist Koneru Humpy.
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Point of View
It is evident that R. Praggnanandhaa is not just a chess player but a beacon of hope and inspiration for India in the international chess arena. His ability to unwind and enjoy games like Jenga reflects a balanced approach to life, which is crucial for young athletes. His journey is a testament to India's growing prowess in chess, and we celebrate his achievements while looking forward to his future endeavors.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What game does Praggnanandhaa play in his free time?
Praggnanandhaa enjoys playing Jenga during his leisure time.
What recent tournament did Praggnanandhaa win?
He recently won the Tata Masters.
Who is Praggnanandhaa's main rival?
His main rival is World Champion D. Gukesh.
What significant event is Praggnanandhaa participating in?
He is participating in the Global Chess League Season 3 draft in Mumbai.
What notable players are in the Global Chess League draft?
The draft includes players like Viswanathan Anand, Hikaru Nakamura, and Fabiano Caruana.
