Checkmate against the odds: Winner of North Zone Chess C'ship for Visually Challenged aims for international gold
Emerging as the champion was 23-year-old Somendra from Delhi, whose journey to the top is as inspiring as his performance on the chessboard.
Held from July 10 to 13, the championship was overseen by Varun Kumar, an international-level arbiter and the chief arbiter of the 2025 North Zone Championship, appointed by the All-India Chess Federation for the Blind (AICFB). Speaking about the event, Varun shared, "It's been 15 years since I've been associated with this game.
I've been an arbiter for all kinds of matches, but working with the visually impaired is special.
"
Indeed, the tournament setup reflected this sentiment. The specially designed boards feature raised dark squares and lowered white squares, with each piece fixed into place by pegs fitting into holes, so that players don't accidentally knock them over. Black pieces are distinguishable by a pin protruding on top, and players use braille notation sheets or tape recorders to track and announce their moves.
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For Somendra, this championship was not just a test of skill but a milestone in a journey defined by perseverance and passion.
Born and raised in Delhi, Somendra spent part of his childhood in his village with his grandparents. It was there, at a young age, that he contracted chickenpox. Due to a lack of timely medical attention and awareness, complications set in, leading to the tragic loss of his eyesight. Years of medical treatment eventually restored about 25% of his vision, but the experience left an indelible mark.
Despite these challenges, Somendra found a spark that would change his life, chess. Introduced to the game by his seniors when he was in Class 3, he would often sit beside them during matches, slowly absorbing the rules and rhythm of the game. By 2016, chess became more than just a hobby, it became his interest.
His dedication bore fruit on the international stage when he got the bronze medal at the Asian Para Games 2022, held in 2023 due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
That victory helped him secure a job at the Income Tax Office in Mumbai as a multi-tasking staff (MTS) through the sports quota, recognising his achievements in the international arena.
Somendra trains under Dutta Sir, a coach who continues to guide him as he prepares for bigger opportunities. With his recent North Zone title win, Somendra is gearing up for the National Championships and has a clear goal in mind: "I want to win the gold at the 2027 World Games," he says, determined.
Somendra's story is not just about winning a championship. It is a powerful reminder that with the right support, accessibility, and unwavering resolve, no obstacle can dim the spark within.
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