About Us
Our Story
we have a long history
At Indian Chess Academy, we don’t just create world-class chess players—we build character. Our approach combines personalized coaching with a focus on strategic thinking, discipline, and sportsmanship, helping every student—from absolute beginners to aspiring tournament competitors—reach their full potential both on and off the board.
Viraj Pandit is the founder and head coach at Indian Chess Academy. Driven by a passion for the game and a dedication to nurturing each student’s growth, his coaching style blends practical instruction with hands-on problem-solving. Believing in the transformative power of chess, Viraj ensures every training session fosters not only stronger chess skills but also the discipline and critical thinking that last a lifetime.
Why Choose Us?
We have an amazing strategy
Indian Chess Academy combines expert coaching, strategic thinking, and sportsmanship to help you reach your full potential with personalized training and diverse services.
Who Are We
About Indian Chess Academy
Indian Chess Academy was founded on a simple idea: chess should be taught in a way that feels engaging, personal, and meaningful. What began as a side project by Viraj Pandit, a computer science engineer with a lifelong passion for the game, soon became a response to the overly generic and impersonal nature of most online chess classes.
As the academy grew, Viraj teamed up with Nachiket Chitre, whose structured approach and shared love for chess helped shape the academy’s direction. Together, they created an environment where students receive close, thoughtful mentoring. Every session is designed with care, allowing coaches to adapt to each student’s pace and style — building not just skill, but confidence.
meet our founders
We have inherited technique
Viraj Pandit
Co-Founder & Head Coach
Believes chess is more than just a game—it’s a way of thinking. A FIDE-rated player with over five years of coaching experience, he has trained students ranging from young prodigies as young as four to adult competitors.
A computer science graduate with a deep analytical approach to the game, he also played a key role in organizing the 2022 International Chess Olympiad in Chennai. His coaching blends practical instruction with hands-on problem-solving, helping players sharpen their strategy, stay composed under pressure, and think several moves ahead—on the board and beyond.
Because in chess, like in life, the smartest move is always the next one.
Nachiket Chitre
FIDE Master
With a remarkable peak rating of 2300 and an Electrical and Electronics Engineering graduate from the esteemed BITS Pilani. Beyond his chess accolades, Nachiket is a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of a chess academy dedicated to fostering the next generation of chess enthusiasts.
.With a 10 year + experience of teaching quants, he combines his analytical skills and educational insight to innovate in chess learning. His commitment to chess and education, along with a pioneering spirit, positions the academy as a beacon for budding chess talents, promising a unique blend of strategy, discipline, and analytical thinking.
Nachiket
Founder
Viraj
Founder
Viraj Pandit
Co-Founder & Head Coach
FIDE coach, sharp tactician, transforms raw talent into tournament-ready champions.
Nachiket Chitre
FIDE Master
Patient mentor and ICA Co-Founder, brings chess alive for curious young minds.
meet our coaches
Viraj Pandit
FIDE-rated coach and ICA co-founder with 5+ years of experience. Trains all ages with a strategic, real- world approach. Key contributor to the 2022 Chess Olympiad.
Viraj Pandit
Aum Vyas
A passionate chess player for over 5 years, Aum brings deep game knowledge and a love for teaching. At ICA, he shares the beauty of chess with students in a way that’s both inspiring and insightful.
Aum Vyas
Tushar Deshpande
With 9 years of coaching experience and 15 internationally rated students, Tushar is a certified Senior Instructor. His training builds strong strategy, discipline, and confidence in every player.
Tushar Deshpande
Aryan Chitale
A FIDE-rated player and inter- university gold medallist, Aryan combines playing experience with a sharp, analytical mind. He leads with passion and aims to inspire future champions.
Aryan Chitale
Learn more about our Program
join and become an expert!
Join Indian Chess Academy and embark on the path to becoming a grandmaster with expert guidance and personalized training.
join and become an Expert!
Join Indian Chess Academy and embark on the path to becoming a grandmaster with expert guidance and personalized training.
