“Chess was destiny, otherwise I’d be a….,” reveals Divya Deshmukh on the country’s popular show The Candid Talk

New Delhi: On the country’s popular show 'The Candid Talk' with veteran journalist Manoj Tibrewal Aakash on Dynamite News, Indian chess Grandmaster Divya Deshmukh revealed candid insights into her journey, ambitions, and mindset. From calling, “Chess was destiny, otherwise I’d be a doctor”, to crediting her parents as her strongest support, and declaring, “Aggression is my strength on the chessboard,” Divya spoke openly about her choices, challenges, and inspirations.

Chess: Destiny, Choice… and an Alternate Dream

Was chess a choice or destiny? For Divya, it was both. She revealed that while chess gradually became her life’s calling, had it not worked out, she would probably have chosen medicine. “Chess was destiny—otherwise I’d be a doctor,” she said, underscoring how naturally the game found her.

Interestingly, Divya admitted she never dreamt of becoming a chess grandmaster in the beginning. What started without long-term planning slowly transformed into passion as tournaments, learning and competition began to excite her.

Parents: The Strongest Backbone

Calling her parents her biggest strength, Divya credited them for being her constant support system. From travelling to tournaments to standing by her during difficult phases, she believes their belief and grounding have played the biggest role in her growth—both as a player and as a person.

“Aggression Is My Strength"

Known for her aggressive playing style, Divya is unapologetic about taking risks on the chessboard. For her, aggression is not a weakness—it’s her strength. Even when bold decisions don’t pay off, she believes risk-taking opens the door to better outcomes and growth.

Pressure, Expectations and Comparisons

Addressing expectations from chess players in India, Divya shared that they are not as overwhelming as perceived—but pressure does exist.

However, comparisons with legends do not affect her mindset. “Comparison does not matter to me at all,” she said, explaining that her focus remains on her own journey and her family’s expectations.

"Discipline matters when you do not win"

One of the most powerful takeaways from Divya’s words was her view on failure. She stressed that discipline matters most when you are not winning—when motivation drops and self-doubt creeps in. Those moments, she believes, define an athlete far more than victories.

Chess, she added, is not just a mental game. Long hours at the board demand stamina, physical endurance and razor-sharp focus—making it a complete test of mind and body.

“Felt Honoured After Being Felicitated by CJI Surya Kant"

Divya revealed that she has drawn inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly from interactions that motivated her to think beyond results. She also spoke about feeling deeply honoured after being felicitated by Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant—an acknowledgement she considers both humbling and motivating.

Despite accolades and recognition, Divya believes humility comes from upbringing, not achievements.

Eyes on the Candidates Tournament

Looking ahead, Divya made it clear that her current focus is on the Candidates Tournament. As chess continues to gain recognition and popularity across India, she said it fills her with pride to see the game reach more people and inspire younger generations.