New Delhi | Rajshree Upadhyaya
By using technology for learning chess, Sukumaran Athul Krishna, Abhijit Mohan, Arijit Mohan, Aadesh Joshi, Manu Manikandan and Chander Raju started the global chess education brand Eight Times Eight in the year 2022 and created a position. Like chess, very few games have stood the test of time, but for the six passionate players from Kerala, it was much more than just a competitive game. The founders believed that quality chess education should not be limited by location or access to expert coaches. Their aim was to provide structured coaching to students across the world. Their shared experiences as competitive chess players helped them identify the gaps in traditional coaching and inspired them to create a platform that combines expert guidance with an engaging digital learning experience. From the beginning, the founders focused on building a learning ecosystem instead of a traditional chess academy. The company started online chess coaching, live interactive classes, one-on-one coaching sessions, structured chess curriculum, tournament preparation programs and special training for children and competitive players. Each course was designed to help students progress step-by-step, whether they were complete beginners or experienced players looking to improve their tournament performance. By combining experienced coaches with technology-enabled learning, Eight Times Eight tried to make chess education more accessible, flexible and consistent for learners of different age groups.
Company built an
international student base in several countries
As the startup grew, its reputation increased through the success of its students and its ability to attract students from outside India. The founders focused on disciplined learning, strategic thinking and analytical problem-solving and presented chess not only as a game but also as a valuable life skill. The company gradually built an international student base in several countries, showing that Indian educational startups can successfully compete in a specialised global market.
Along with its coaching programs, Eight Times Eight also introduced chess learning kits, including physical chess boards, workbooks and digital learning resources, to further improve the educational experience for young learners. After appearing on Shark Tank India Season 5, the company’s journey reached more people, where the founders showcased their vision of building a global chess education brand.
The national platform provided significant recognition to the startup and highlighted the growing potential of specialised online education businesses emerging from India. Instead of presenting itself as just another edtech company, Eight Times Eight differentiated itself by focusing on a single subject and continuously improving its teaching methods, curriculum and coaching standards. This focused approach helped the brand build credibility in the rapidly competitive online education environment.
Brand created a
growing name in global chess education
Today, Eight Times Eight is operating as an active company, reflecting its commitment to long-term growth in the chess education sector. Since its beginning in 2022, the founders have been focusing on expanding their reach, strengthening their coaching network and improving the learning experience through technology and structured programs. What started as a common passion among six chess enthusiasts has become a promising Indian startup, helping students develop strategic thinking, patience and confidence through the timeless game of chess. By combining expertise, innovation and accessibility, Eight Times Eight has created a growing name in global chess education and continues to work on the vision that inspired its founders from the beginning.
