Muscat: In a time when the majority of children are engrossed in video games and toys, eight-year-old Dahveed Sibi Kurisinkal is demonstrating exceptional skill and dedication in the strategic game of chess, already achieving notable success in a competitive environment that demands a sharp intellect and steady hand.
Since his introduction to the game two years ago, the student of Indian School Al Maabela (ISAM) has ascended to remarkable heights, securing titles and garnering recognition within the competitive school chess circuit.
"I recall experiencing a profound sense of excitement upon my first tournament victory, which fueled my desire to practice with even greater intensity," Dahveed shared with the Times of Oman, his passion for the game evident.
Dahveed's list of accomplishments underscores his proficiency and unwavering commitment to chess.
In 2023, he emerged victorious in the Board Prize category at the Oman CBSE Cluster Chess Under-11 Championship, playing a crucial role in leading his team to the runner-up position.
Furthermore, he has excelled in local Rapid Chess tournaments for the Under-9 category, securing victories and demonstrating his strategic prowess.
"I relish the challenge presented by each game, particularly when I discover a winning strategy that I had not considered before," Dahveed remarked.
The recognition of Dahveed's talent was a momentous occasion at the tender age of six, when Sajith Kumar, the ISAM physical education teacher, observed his exceptional aptitude.
Kumar's encouragement and support were pivotal in shaping Dahveed's journey into competitive chess.
Since that initial discovery, Dahveed has continued to advance his skills, receiving individual coaching from various professionals through online sessions, which has allowed him to refine his tactics and deepen his understanding of the game.
As a third-grade student at ISAM, Dahveed skillfully balances his academic responsibilities with his fervor for chess, exhibiting a level of maturity and dedication that is uncommon for his age.
His role model, Arjun Erigaisi, a promising young talent in Indian chess, has influenced Dahveed's approach to the game.
Like his idol, Dahveed is proficient in both the Rapid and Classical styles, adjusting his strategy to suit the requirements of each tournament.
Achievement in India
A significant milestone in Dahveed's chess career was his participation in the CBSE Nationals Chess Championship recently held in the Indian city of Jalandhar, where he finished as the individual runner-up in the Under-11 mixed category among a distinguished field of competitors.
"I was filled with pride to reach that level, despite the disappointment of losing one game, which only reinforced my determination to practice more rigorously," Dahveed expressed.
As the inaugural coach of Dahveed, Kumar found himself filled with a profound sense of gratitude and pride as he reflected upon the young player's recent achievements.
He remarked, "The culmination of countless hours dedicated to training, strategizing, and honing skills into a victorious moment is indeed a humbling experience. The triumph at the national level is a source of immense pride, highlighting the unwavering commitment invested in each practice session. This victory transcends mere success; it represents a moment that will be treasured for a lifetime."
For Dahveed, the game of chess is more than a mere hobby; it is a vocation, and he has ambitious aspirations. His ultimate ambition is to achieve the esteemed title of Grandmaster, a dream that epitomizes his confidence and dedication to excelling in this demanding sport.
"I aspire to compete against the world's finest players," Dahveed stated with quiet resolve. With the forthcoming Under-9 National Championship in Pune, India, scheduled for December 2024, Dahveed stands poised for another opportunity to showcase his skills against top competitors, with the hope of participating in future international and world championships.
At the heart of Dahveed's journey lies the unwavering support of his family. The youngest of three siblings, Dahveed is the son of Sibi Babu, who serves as the General Manager of Al Hajiry Group, and Minu Sibi, employed at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. His elder brother, Aadam, who is in eighth grade, and his elder sister, Angel, who is in fourth grade, stand by his side, offering encouragement as he navigates a path filled with strategic challenges and lofty ambitions. Both of Dahveed's siblings share his passion for chess.
As Dahveed progresses on his journey, it is evident that his fervent love for chess, coupled with the support of his family and the guidance of his coaches, positions him on a trajectory for success. With a chessboard as his arena, Dahveed has already established a reputation in the competitive chess world, adeptly balancing the complexities of the game with an ambition that propels him closer to his ultimate goal: to become a Grandmaster.
"I am fully aware that the path to becoming a Grandmaster will require considerable effort," Dahveed acknowledged, "but I am prepared to dedicate myself fully to this endeavor."
