From a Small Pan Shop to the World Stage: The Remarkable Journey of Amandu Jignesh
In the narrow bylanes of Vizianagaram, a remote district in North Andhra Pradesh, the aroma of tobacco and betel leaves blends with the scent of dreams. At a modest pan shop run by Suresh Kumar, hope takes a new shape every morning. But little did anyone know that behind the humble counter, a world-class talent was quietly being nurtured—his son, Amandu Jignesh, a rising chess prodigy in the disabled category, who is now all set to represent India at the World Disabled Chess Championship in Goa.
Jignesh's journey is anything but ordinary. Born with physical challenges, his entry into the world of chess was not planned. It all began in 2024, when during a visit to a shopping mall, he stumbled upon a chessboard that instantly fascinated him. Something clicked in his young mind. The black-and-white battlefield spoke to him in ways no words ever could.
With no background in the sport, his first coach was none other than his father, who himself learned the basic moves just to teach his son. From then on, there was no turning back. The duo discovered Syda Chess Academy in Vizianagaram, where Jignesh started formal training under the dedicated guidance of Coaches Mrs Syada Begum & Mr Raju .
In just over a year, Jignesh has scaled heights that take many years to achieve. He has secured an international FIDE rating, won multiple district and state-level championships, and recently clinched the second place in the National Championship ( category ) for Disabled Players, qualifying him to represent India on the global stage.
All this, while fighting an even tougher battle—financial hardship.
For every tournament Jignesh participates in, the family spends between ₹15,000 to ₹20,000, covering entry fees, accommodation, food, and travel. For a pan shop vendor in a small town, this is a monumental expense. But Suresh Kumar and his wife Vimala, a homemaker, refuse to let poverty clip their son’s wings. They have borrowed from friends, taken small loans, and cut corners on daily expenses just to ensure that Jignesh gets every opportunity he deserves.
Even now, as Jignesh prepares for the World Championship, only his entry fee is being waived. The rest—travel, lodging, and meals—must be borne by the family. Yet, their spirit remains unbroken.
“We are not rich in money, but we are rich in dreams,” says Suresh Kumar with pride in his eyes. “We believe that our son will make India proud one day. That is our only mission.”
Their burden has been slightly eased thanks to the support of Andhra Chess Association, with its President Sri A. Suresh Garu extending a ₹5,000 cash incentive to encourage the young champion. Local ranking tournaments and open events near their hometown have also played a key role by reducing travel costs, allowing Jignesh to continue competing and improving.
A Call for Support
Jignesh’s story is not just about talent—it is about grit, love, and relentless perseverance. It is also a wake-up call to the larger society. There are many gifted children like Jignesh in our country, whose potential is trapped under the weight of financial struggle.
This is where corporate houses, philanthropic organizations, and good Samaritans can make a real difference.
Supporting such players is not just an act of charity; it is an investment in India’s sporting future. Sponsoring a player like Jignesh means contributing to a larger movement of inclusion, empowerment, and national pride.
The Dream
Jignesh dreams of becoming one of the best chess players in the world. With every move on the board, he proves that disability is not inability. All he needs now is the right support to continue his journey.
Let us come together to ensure that the dreams born in a pan shop in Vizianagaram don’t remain unfulfilled. Let us help Jignesh not just play the World Championship—but win it for India.
KV/-