Pranesh M: The Unsung Hero Behind Vaishali's Historic Chess Triumph
In the elite world of competitive chess, where digital engines and high-tech preparation often dominate, the story of Grandmaster Pranesh M stands out as a testament to raw talent, perseverance, and humble beginnings. From studying the game without a laptop to playing a pivotal role in R Vaishali's historic victory at the Women's Candidates Tournament, his journey is nothing short of remarkable.
The Chennai Grand Masters: A Controversial Yet Prestigious Arena
The Chennai Grand Masters, an annual closed tournament held in India's chess capital, is divided into two sections: Masters and Challengers. Since its inception in 2023, it has attracted top players from around the globe. However, the tournament's first edition faced criticism for being announced just four days before its start, with allegations that it was arranged hastily to help Gukesh Dommaraju and Arjun Erigaisi qualify for the 2024 Candidates Tournament. FIDE deputy president Viswanathan Anand defended the event, stating it was organized within the rules.
By 2025, the tournament reached its third edition. That year, R Vaishali, fresh from her rising fame, was invited to compete in the Challengers section, which features relatively lower-rated players compared to the Masters field. Winning the Challengers section grants qualification to the next edition's Masters. Unfortunately, Vaishali had a disastrous performance, finishing at the bottom. The winner was Pranesh Munirethinam, a young Grandmaster whose calm demeanor belies his fierce competitive spirit on the board.
From Karaikudi to Cyprus: Pranesh's Unconventional Rise
Pranesh's origins trace back to Karaikudi, a small town in Tamil Nadu. Born to a mother who works at an anganwadi, caring for underprivileged children, and a father who is an accountant at a textile store, resources were always limited. Yet, Pranesh never let this become an excuse. His coach, RB Ramesh, revealed on social media that until Pranesh became an International Master in 2020, he didn't have access to a laptop for chess preparation. In an era dominated by engine analysis, Pranesh's rise was analog, relying on borrowed books, handwritten notes, and old chess magazines.
"I didn’t worry about what I didn’t have," Pranesh told TimesofIndia.com in an exclusive interview. "I just thought about what I have: my coach, my parents, my books. Even earlier generations didn’t have laptops, but they still became grandmasters. I just learned from whatever I could find." This simplicity and focus propelled him to become India's 79th Grandmaster in 2023.
The Bond with Mentor RB Ramesh and Entry into Elite Chess
Pranesh's chess journey began at age five when his parents introduced chess and carrom to keep him occupied. By 11, he was a known face in national championships and joined Chess Gurukul, the academy run by renowned coach RB Ramesh. Ramesh, who has mentored stars like R Praggnanandhaa and Vaishali, recognized Pranesh's potential early. Their bond is beautifully captured in a viral photo where Ramesh attempted to lift Pranesh in celebration after his Chennai Grand Masters Challengers win. "He tried so hard to lift me," Pranesh laughed. "I’m so much heavier now, so it must’ve been difficult for him."
Pranesh's Crucial Role in Vaishali's Candidates Victory
Pranesh's name resurfaced prominently when he played a key part in Vaishali's historic win at the Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, helping her earn the right to challenge China's Ju Wenjun for the World Championship. According to Vaishali, the idea to bring Pranesh to Cyprus came from WGM Aarthie Ramaswamy and RB Ramesh's wife, who described him as a "very nice and funny person to be around." In the high-pressure environment of the Candidates, where psychological strain can be debilitating, Pranesh's role was to keep things light and supportive.
"The idea was I might get tense because there are a lot of tense moments, and he will keep it light. That was the plan. And it exactly happened the same," Vaishali revealed. "There were a lot of high-pressure moments and a lot of tough games. Even after tough games, whenever I got to his room, he was like ‘It was ok akka,’ that was his thing." Beyond emotional support, Pranesh also assisted with opening preparations, showcasing his tactical prowess as both a sparring partner and confidant.
Balancing Academics and Chess: The Life of a Modern Grandmaster
Currently in his third year of B.Sc. Computer Science at SRM University, Pranesh adeptly balances his studies with the demands of professional chess. In Cyprus, however, his role was unique—he wasn't competing for personal glory but ensuring Vaishali didn't buckle under the weight of history. His selfless contribution highlights the importance of teamwork in individual sports.
As the world watches Vaishali prepare for her World Championship match, Pranesh M's story serves as a powerful reminder that success in chess isn't solely about resources but about resilience, mentorship, and unwavering support. From a boy without a laptop to a key figure in India's first-ever Women's Candidates victory, his journey continues to inspire aspiring chess players across the nation.
