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Find out more about Vikas

• 1) When did you start practising? How did this passion find you?

  I found chess late in my life, learning the rules at 14, and starting practice at the age of 16. My early memories of chess involve playing against my father and an old Samsung cell-phone. I remember being mesmerized by the game. So much so, that when I finally had the chance to pursue it after moving to UK for university, I never looked back.

• 2) Which artists or works affect you the most?

  The two masters who influence me the most are Tal and Capablanca. Although conflicting in their style, the polar opposite truly, they stood out equally for their personality. Tal was a deviant who chased victory by complicating positions beyond his opponent's comprehension, Capablanca did so by simplifying beyond their will. They rode their styles and personality to the top of the chess world leaving a century long mark. But at their heart, they were both storytellers, who left just as incredible tales off the chess board. I'd love to share these tales with my students.

• 3) What are the qualities and skill required to succeed in this area?

  Absence of pressure is just as important as presence of qualities. Chess cannot mastered unless it is thoroughly enjoyed, and once it's enjoyed, mastery may not be the focus. My greatest gratification would be if chess enhances the life of my students beyond the board and helps them develop a character that represents their true-self.

• 4) What is the most valuable advice you can give to help someone stay focused on creative projects?

  Truly Enjoy it. Low commitment, high discipline. It's much better to dedicate little effort consistently, than to take the bursting bubbles path.
  Human connection is important, may I quote, if you want to go fast go alone but if you want to go far go together.

• 5) How would you describe your passion; how does it make you feel?

  Grateful and Confident.
  Being able to find a brilliant combination brings me great joy, and a sense of safety. For a lot of elements in world beyond my control, chess is a story of which I have full ownership and accountability.
  It brings me hope and a sense of belonging to be able to be a part of something bigger, that represents proof of intellect of so many around, before and after me. No exceptions.

• 6) What creative achievements are you particularly proud of?

  My greatest achievement is to be able to teach and pass down my knowledge and love for the game. Competitively, my draw in Rapid game against Alexander Cherniaev and victory against English Women's champion WGM Elmira Mirzoeva are my best results.

• 7) Have you ever been surprised by a student; by their ability or quick progression?

  I have met students of various starting abilities and progress journeys.
  One of my surprises was the sportsmanship exhibited by a student of mine. At only seven years old, he was equally happy from the game after winning or losing against his friend. Combining childlike innocence with mature understanding his remarks are always a welcome sound.
  I focus on the 'why' and building up from fundamentals, instead of getting my students to memorize rules of thumb for quick progress. In doing so, a student of mine pointed out an argument for knight being stronger than the rook that I had not thought of before. I rationalized with him and explained why despite this argument the value of pieces still holds and the rook is stronger, but the argument itself impressed me.
  I have also been inspired by the discipline and attention-span of another student of mine who has shown maturity, discipline and dedication beyond her years.
  I wish all of them the best in life and am keen to observe how chess influences what they become.

• 8) Being a Superprof is an art! What is your secret?

  Being motivated is easy, because there are few things in world more rewarding than watching someone progress because of skills that I possess. That motivation is my secret.