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Lanka Ravi, India’s first International Master from Andhra Pradesh, reflects on his four-decade chess journey, evolving opportunities, the sport’s growth, and the need for better support and recognition
Updated On – 19 July 2025, 10:10 PM
Lanka Ravi, first International Master in chess from the Telugu-speaking States of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Hyderabad: Not many may be aware that Lanka Ravi was the first International Master from the then combined Andhra Pradesh, achieving the feat back in 1987.
A quiet achiever and former Asian and National Rapid Champion, the 62-year-old Lanka Ravi has been active as a player, coach, and administrator. By virtue of holding senior positions at NLC and later at ONGC, he played a significant role in recruiting many prominent sportspersons — not just chess players.
Looking back at nearly four decades since he earned the coveted IM title, which was then a huge achievement, Hyderabadi Ravi shared his thoughts in an exclusive chat with Telangana Today on the eve of International Chess Day (July 20), celebrated to commemorate the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924, and recognised by UNESCO since 1986.
Q&A With Lanka Ravi
Q: How has chess evolved from the 1970s till now?
Lanka Ravi: The transformation has been nothing short of revolutionary. In the 1970s and 80s, chess was more of an individual pursuit. It wasn’t a recognised sport. Books were the only source of knowledge, and accessing the right material was a struggle. There were very few tournaments, coaching was rare, and preparation meant studying Informants and old game collections.
I was the 11th International Master from India, and the first from a Telugu-speaking state (then Andhra Pradesh) in 1987. Viswanathan Anand was the first Grandmaster from India. We had very few international tournaments then. Fast forward to now — players have many high-level events, access to top engines, databases, online tournaments, world-class coaches, and real-time analysis. Chess has truly globalised, and India has played a key role in that journey, especially with the rise of players like Anand.
Q: What were the major challenges faced by players and officials back then?
Funding and access were the biggest hurdles. Travel was expensive, sponsorships were rare, and official support was limited. We had to write letters to organisers, wait weeks for a response, and often self-funded our trips. Even acquiring a visa or foreign currency was difficult. Chess officials also struggled with limited resources and infrastructure.
Q: What helped players like Humpy, Harikrishna, Harika, Arjun emerge?
Apart from their brilliance, the common factors were strong family support, early exposure, consistent coaching, and international exposure. For Humpy and Harikrishna, their fathers played a vital role in shaping their careers. Arjun Erigaisi represents a new generation with better access to technology and resources. They all show tremendous dedication and resilience.
Q: What is the current level of coaching, opportunities, and exposure?
Young players today are fortunate. Good coaches are more accessible, online training is mainstream, and players can compete internationally from home. We now have specialised training camps, sports psychologists, and even physical fitness as part of preparation. The Chess Olympiad 2022 in India gave the ecosystem a huge push.
Q: How do you see the current standard of chess in India?
India is among the strongest nations in chess today. With 87 Grandmasters and many more on the way, the talent pool is deep. Even in smaller towns, there are 9 or 10-year-olds with ELO ratings above 2000!
Q: What more needs to be done to nurture talent?
Systematic grassroots support is needed. Chess should be introduced in schools with structured curricula. Regional federations need funding to organise events. Promising players must get scholarships, elite coaching, and international exposure. We also need more mentorship — connecting past champions with upcoming players.
Q: How is technology helping today compared to your early days?
Back then, we relied on printed game collections and even handwritten notes. Today’s players learn from online platforms, engines like Stockfish, massive game databases, and global coaches. Playing online sharpens intuition and opening preparation.
Q: What is the future of chess in Telugu-speaking states?
There is immense talent in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The success of players like Harikrishna, Arjun, and Harika is proof. But we need structured academies, government support, corporate sponsorships, and exposure tournaments. Initiatives like Chola Chess Academy can be game-changers for the region.
Q: What kind of support does a performing chess player get today compared to your time?
There’s a stark contrast. Today’s performers can get sponsorships, federation backing, government incentives, and private funding. In my time, we approached local businesses, clubs, and well-wishers just to fund a single trip. There was no system — only personal effort.
Q: You are the first IM from Andhra Pradesh. How did that happen and how did the title help you?
Becoming the first IM from Andhra Pradesh was a proud and emotional moment. It came through sheer perseverance — playing several open tournaments in Asia and Europe and a lot of self-study. The title gave me credibility, opened coaching opportunities, and allowed me to inspire future players. It was a breakthrough for the region and gave hope to many.
Q: How did you raise funds for tournaments back then?
It was a mix of personal savings, support from friends, and small-time sponsors. We wrote letters, approached local leaders, and sometimes played simultaneous chess for donations. It was tough, but the desire to represent India kept us going. Once I got my first job at NLC India Ltd, I could finally manage tournaments on my own.
Q: Any memorable moments in your chess journey?
Many. One was earning my IM title and GM norms in tough Asian and European circuits. Another was representing India at Chess Olympiads and Asian Team Championships. I played over 50 times for India. Coaching talents like Pendyala Harikrishna, Karthik, VAV Rajesh, Mehar Chenna Reddy, and many others from Telugu-speaking states has also been deeply fulfilling.
Q: Tell us about your coaching journey.
Coaching became my passion after my playing career. As a FIDE Trainer and now Senior Trainer, I’ve guided many youngsters. I focus not only on chess skills but also on building character and confidence. I also started structured training through Cyber Chess Academy.
Q: Do you feel you haven’t received the recognition you deserved?
Yes. Though I was the first IM from Andhra Pradesh, I never received official recognition or a felicitation from the state. The then Chief Minister, (Late) YS Rajasekhara Reddy garu, agreed to allot 500 sq yards — the file was cleared and a GO was issued, but it never moved forward. I had no political backing and didn’t pursue recognition actively, as my priority was contributing to Indian chess, especially in our region. Recognition does help inspire future generations, but my biggest reward is seeing the success of my students.
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