Niklesh Kumar Jain, a FIDE Instructor and international chess player, has made significant contributions to the chess community, not just by participating in tournaments, but also by popularizing the game through his unique Hindi commentary. His ability to narrate complex chess moves in a simple, engaging manner has won him a large following, especially in the Hindi-speaking states of India.
Niklesh Kumar Jain has not only excelled as a chess player but has also carved a niche for himself as a beloved commentator and educator. His passion for the game, coupled with his ability to simplify complex concepts, has helped popularize chess in the Hindi-speaking regions of India. His commentary, filled with energy and simplicity, continues to inspire and engage chess enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Simplifying Chess for All
One of Niklesh’s biggest strengths is his ability to explain complex chess strategies in plain Hindi. He simplifies even the most intricate moves in a way that makes sense not only to experienced players but also to those who are new to the game. His commentary during chess matches is not just educational but also highly engaging, filled with enthusiasm and energy. Niklesh adds a sense of excitement to every move, making his commentary enjoyable even for non-chess players.
The India vs China Match: A Marathon Commentary
During the 2024 Chess Olympiad, Niklesh streamed the India vs. China match for six hours straight on his YouTube channel, ChessBase India Hindi. Despite the long duration, his energy never wavered. He maintained his enthusiasm throughout the entire stream, making the experience thrilling for the audience. Around 36,000 viewers at a different point tuned in to watch the stream, many of whom appreciated how he explained complex moves with such ease.
His commentary felt like a conversation with friends rather than a technical analysis. He broke down the moves into simple steps, making them accessible to a wide audience. Even after hours of streaming, Niklesh’s excitement and passion for the game remained as strong as ever, proving his dedication to the sport.
Popularizing Chess Among Hindi Speakers
Niklesh’s efforts to promote chess in the Hindi-speaking regions have been remarkable. His YouTube channel, ChessBase India Hindi, has become a go-to resource for chess enthusiasts. With videos teaching chess strategies, endgame planning, and middle-game tactics, all explained in simple Hindi, he has made the game accessible to thousands of people who previously may not have engaged with chess.
His video titled How to Play Chess | Basics Explained | Hindi – सीखे शतरंज खेलना is one of his most popular, with over one million views. This video introduces the basics of chess to beginners, further solidifying his role as an ambassador of the game.
A Role Model for Aspiring Players
Niklesh’s dedication goes beyond commentary. He has ambitions of becoming a grandmaster, but he equally enjoys training young talents. His belief that chess should be part of every school’s curriculum to equip students with the tools to face the challenges of the 21st century shows his forward-thinking mindset.
