When kids take the lead - Tania Sachdev's memorable morning in Kolkata
International Master Tania Sachdev visited the RP Goenka School in Kolkata for what turned out to be a truly memorable interaction. What stood out wasn’t just the questions - but the confidence, clarity, and leadership shown by children as young as eight. In this heartwarming account, Tania reflects on young minds, the role of sport, and the moments from school that stay with us forever. It's wonderful to see what Tania is doing apart from playing chess and commentating - inspiring the next generation!
Tania Sachdev - back to school?!
“It turned out to be one of the most memorable mornings that I’ve had.” For Tania Sachdev, the visit to RP Goenka School in Kolkata wasn’t something long planned. She was in the city for the Trailblazer Sports Conclave when an opportunity came up - an invitation to interact with young students. The schedule was tight, the day packed. But Kolkata holds a special place. “We’ve all had such amazing memories here with the Tata Steel tournament. So I just said, ‘Yes, let’s do it." That simple decision led to something far more meaningful than expected.
"The students invited me on stage and they were just 8 to 10 years old,” Tania recalls. “They spoke so well, with such confidence. I can’t even tell you.” There were teachers present. The principal was there. But they had deliberately stepped back. In their place stood young students - hosting, moderating, asking questions, and guiding the entire session. “There was a panel with one teacher who didn’t ask me a single question,” she said with a smile. “It was the students - really young students - who asked everything.”
And the questions? Thoughtful. Clear. Fearless. “They asked about chess, about commentary, what I love most about the game… it was really nice.” But more than the questions, it was how they asked them. “Their self-belief, their confidence. It was amazing to see.”
For Tania, the contrast with her own childhood was striking. “I was very shy and introverted as a school kid - completely different from this generation.” Today’s children, she observed, carry themselves differently. “Their confidence and self-belief is at a completely different level.” And that doesn’t happen by accident. “It comes down to the schools, the teachers… the environment where they’re given freedom of thought, space to express themselves, and where personality development starts early.” At RP Goenka School, that vision was clearly visible. “The idea is to create young leaders,” she said. “And you could feel that from start to finish.”
The RP Goenka ecosystem has a strong connection with sports and that influence is deeply embedded in the school culture. And for Tania, that makes all the difference. “At a young age, especially, chess builds focus, discipline, and decision-making.” But beyond chess, the lesson is universal. “Sports teaches patience. It teaches you how to handle wins and losses.” And those lessons stay. “It doesn’t matter whether you become a professional player or not - that foundation helps you in everything you do.” Her takeaway is simple, but powerful: “Every kid should play a sport.”
If there was one message Tania wanted to leave the students with, it wasn’t about openings, ratings, or results. It was about memories. “I told them - the best memories you’ll take from school will not be from inside the classroom.” They will come from somewhere else. “They’ll be on the field, on the playground, playing with your friends - the fun you have, the games you enjoy together.” Those are the moments that last.
As the session ended and students gathered around her - some with questions, some with excitement, some simply wanting to be part of the moment. "You don't feel like you are talking to kids, Tania said. They are engaging, involved and it was really fun and wholesome!"
Related News
The watch rule strikes again! WGM Swati Ghate loses her game against IM Tania Sachdev
Batumi Chess Olympiad: India's chances of a podium finish diminish after a catastrophic ninth round
Batumi Chess Olympiad: Sasikiran helps India edge out Czech Republic, women suffer their first loss
Live Games and Updates of Team india from Batumi Olympiad 2018
Five tips by Tania Sachdev to become better at chess!