Varugeese Koshy, an International Master, distinguished coach, and mentor to many chess aspirants, has passed away at the age of 66. He is survived by his wife and two sons. Koshy was aware of his terminal lung cancer for around ten months and faced the illness with his trademark sense of humour. Last October, he famously remarked, “Apna time aa gaya.”
Remembering Varugeese Koshy
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Starting his journey as a nonconformist, Koshy was among the rare self-taught gentlemen of the chess world. His innovative strategies on the 64 squares provided him with a notable edge over his contemporaries.
During a time when computers held minimal influence in chess, Koshy emerged from adversity with his exceptional analytical abilities, climbing to the position of India’s number two in the early nineties National Championship.
While he represented India on numerous occasions, Koshy’s greatest impact was felt as a coach. In the mid-90s, he was approached by P Harikrishna’s grandfather to mentor the budding talent. Koshy and Harikrishna collaborated for several years, with Koshy even accompanying him to the Netherlands for his inaugural major event at Wijk aan Zee. Harikrishna later blossomed into one of the nation’s premier chess players.
Tributes and Legacy
I am deeply saddened to learn the news of my former coach International Master Varugeese Koshy sir passing away 😢💔
He played a crucial role in shaping my career and helping me become an International master. Under his guidance, I learned not only chess but also discipline,… pic.twitter.com/gm1CSNUnBq— Harikrishna (@HariChess) May 8, 2024
Koshy subsequently trained several other Indian chess talents, including former world junior champion Abhijeet Gupta, who brought significant accolades to the nation. All of his pupils attest to his indispensable role in their development, addressing him with reverence as “Sir” or “Boss.”
Reacting to the news, Harikrishna expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging Koshy’s pivotal role in his career development. He credited Koshy for imparting not only chess skills but also values of discipline and hard work.
Grandmaster N Srinath, now a dedicated trainer himself, mourned Koshy’s passing. He acknowledged his profound influence on his career and the careers of numerous Indian players across generations. Reflecting on their interactions, multiple-time national champion Padmini Rout fondly recalled singing Koshy’s favourite song at his last PSPB tournament before retirement, a testament to his warm personality and passion for the game.
Also Read: 13-Year-Old Mumbai Kid Bags Rank 3 In World’s Top Young Chess Players
Though Koshy is no longer with us, his legacy will endure in the hearts of Indian chess players. A courageous competitor until the end, he ultimately succumbed to cancer on a Wednesday afternoon.
Cover Image Courtesy: @chesscom_in/X (Formerly, Twitter), @chessbaseindia/ Instagram
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