Aditya Ramanathan: Crafting a Legacy of Empowerment in Chess
At Upstep Academy, we believe in the power of stories to transform lives. One such story belongs to Aditya Ramanathan—a young chess prodigy whose journey reflects not only personal excellence but also a deep commitment to social change. Aditya’s story is not just about achieving a FIDE rating of 1995; it’s about using his platform to inspire and empower a new generation of players, especially young girls, through his pioneering campaign, “The Next Move.”
The Next Move: Empowering Girls in Chess
In 2021, recognizing the gender disparity in chess, Aditya was driven by the desire to create a more inclusive environment where girls could feel empowered and supported. His initiative, aptly named “The Next Move,” was designed to raise awareness about chess among girls and encourage their participation in the sport.
Starting from a very young age, he dedicates his weekends to teaching chess to more than 200 girls (especially from underprivileged backgrounds) across India—completely free of charge—providing them with the tools and confidence to play the game competitively. Aditya continues to run this programme on weekends in spite of his busy high school schedule.
“The Next Move” is not just about teaching chess; it is about building a community. Aditya’s approach is holistic, focusing on creating a supportive atmosphere where girls can learn, grow, and express themselves freely.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
Born in 2007, Aditya’s journey into the world of chess began at the tender age of four, inspired by his grandfather, affectionately known as Taata. His early passion for the game quickly evolved into a serious pursuit, leading him to join Upstep Academy for formal training. Since then, Aditya has been an integral part of the academy, growing from a curious beginner to a celebrated player. In the recent years, Aditya has been a part of the core team of UpStep Academy working part time with the academy since 2021.
Aditya’s dedication to chess is evident in his early achievements. In 2012, he clinched the bronze medal in the under-5 category at the Asian Championships, marking his entry into competitive chess on an international stage. His peak FIDE rating of 1995 stands as a testament to his skill and commitment to the game.
Inspiring the Next Generation Through Master Classes
Beyond his campaign work, Aditya has also played a significant role in Upstep Academy’s prestigious Master Classes, which are conducted online for the academy’s students. These sessions feature none other than five-time world champion GM Viswanathan Anand. Aditya has had the unique opportunity to host these master classes alongside the legendary grandmaster on several occasions.
These sessions, which are a blend of inspiring webinars and in-depth chess analysis, have reached thousands of chess enthusiasts. Aditya, in his role, has not only facilitated the discussion but has also engaged GM Anand with probing questions, bringing the audience’s perspective into the analysis of world championship games. His contributions have added a dynamic and relatable element to these classes, making them a highlight for many Upstep Academy students.
Looking Forward
Upstep Academy is deeply proud of Aditya Ramanathan’s achievements both on and off the chessboard. His work with “The Next Move” campaign represents powerful steps toward building a more inclusive world. By promoting gender equality and inspiring a new generation of chess players, Aditya has shown how even a single individual’s efforts can contribute to broader, positive change in society.