If you thought India’s chess boom was already unstoppable, meet Apoorv Kamble, the young gun from Bangalore who just earned his International Master title and lit up the scene in 2025. This isn’t just another story of steady progress; it’s a rocket ride from sub-1800 ratings to IM glory in under three years, grabbing all three norms this year alone. From chance beginnings with a sister’s chessboard to battling top talents, Apoorv’s journey feels like pure chess cinema, proving that mindset and hard work can rewrite destinies.
Apoorv Kamble’s Breakthrough Moment
Apoorv Kamble’s breakthrough hit at the 34th IM Norm Closed Round Robin in Chennai, where he scored a strong second place, gained 22.6 Elo points, and performed at 2459, clinching his final norm despite a rocky start with draws and clock pressure.
Earlier, he earned his first norm at the Teplice Open in June with 6/9, beating GM Brandon Jacobson and drawing another GM. The second came at the Tamil Nadu IM Closed in October, where he went unbeaten with 7.5/9 to top the event. By the end, he’d surged nearly 600 Elo points, crossing 2400 and joining India’s elite IM list.
What Makes This Rise Special?
Apoorv Kamble credits a mindset shift, bouncing back from losses faster, diving into openings he once ignored, and reading books like Fundamental Chess: Logical Decision Making. A confidence booster came at WestBridge Anand’s tandem simul in Bangalore, where he beat Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Vaishali watched in awe. “It was a huge honour,” he said, with Gukesh’s smiling resignation sealing the moment that fueled his fire.
A Strong Foundation
Behind the scenes, coaches like FM Gurpreet Pal Singh (his main guide since 2020), IM Poobesh Anand S, and early mentor IM Raja Ravi Shekhar built his foundation. Free training at Lakshyan Sports Academy and Chola camps sharpened his calculation and tactics. Even his school, Shishya BEML Public School, backed him with flexible schedules amid studies. Starting at age five, by hijacking his sister’s board, Apoorv turned his early fascination into dominance.
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Now, with IM in the bag, Apoorv Kamble eyes bigger battles like Grandmaster norms. India’s chess wave, fueled by stars like D Gukesh and Pragg, gains another hero in this Bangalore boy. His story screams potential: talent meets grit. Watch out, world, Apoorv Kamble is just getting started. Stay tuned as he chases the next peak!
Also read: Meet Prashant Veer, The 20-Year-Old All-Rounder CSK Backed Big At IPL 2026
