Touching Lives Through Chess: A Special Initiative at Mission for the Blind, Visakhapatnam
Visakhapatnam | July 20, 2025
On the occasion of International Chess Day, Aditya Chess Academy, in association with the Andhra Chess Association, reached out to the students of Mission for the Blind Charitable Trust, Visakhapatnam, as part of the powerful campaign titled "One Move Can Change a Life."
This heartwarming event aimed to promote inclusivity and empowerment through chess, proving that the 64 squares hold possibilities far beyond competitive sport.
A Chess Session Tailored for the Visually Challenged
With thoughtful coordination by Mr. Tarun, and support from Mr. Brahmaiah and Mr. Sai Kumar of Aditya Chess Academy, the session was tailored to cater to visually impaired children. The team:
Conducted an interactive chess awareness session focused on introducing basic concepts of the game to children with vision impairment.
Distributed standard chess boards and refreshments to over 30 enthusiastic students.
Made a heartfelt commitment to provide blind-friendly chess boards in the near future to enable regular practice.
What made this event even more meaningful was the academy’s promise to conduct at least one free coaching class every week, making chess a consistent and empowering activity in the lives of these children.
Vision with Compassion
The driving force behind this initiative is Sri M. Ramakrishna, Director of Aditya Chess Academy and a certified FIDE Instructor, whose vision is to see chess as a tool for mental empowerment, emotional strength, and social integration, especially among the differently-abled and underprivileged.
“Chess is not just a game — it’s a way to show these children that they are not limited by disability. Their minds can conquer, strategize, and rise,” said Mr. Ramakrishna.
Saluting the Spirit of Inclusion
The Andhra Chess Association, under the leadership of Sri A. Suresh (President) and Sri K. Jagadish (Secretary), continues to lead the way in using chess as a medium of social transformation. The 'One Move Can Change a Life' initiative is now resonating across the state, reaching orphanages, schools for the specially-abled, and remote communities — building hope, one move at a time.