Delhi University clinched first place in the women's category at the North Zone Inter University Chess Championship, organized by a Meerut-based university. Six students from various DU colleges formed the victorious team after rigorous trials. The players highlighted their team chemistry and dedication to balancing academics with chess.
Delhi University (DU) secured a gold medal in the women's category of the North Zone Inter University Chess Championship, recently held by a university in Meerut. The team consisted of six players selected from over 100 competitors through individual trials across DU colleges.
Captain Tanishka Kotia, a first-year student at Delhi School of Economics (DSE) and a Women Fide Master, described the victory as deeply personal. She said, “Playing as an individual is different but when we play for our university it brings immense pride and a very special feeling within, representing such a prestigious university. To then go on to win gold, is a feeling like no other. This is dedicated to all DU students, professors as well as Delhiites.”
The team included players from Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR), Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), and Miranda House. Anishka Vikram, a first-year LSR student, noted the seamless unity despite diverse backgrounds: “We had a diversity in our team, including students from LSR, SRCC and Miranda. We all were great friends and playing against each other before DU, so to unite and play was never an issue for us. Also we respected each other and made decisions to achieve our common goal- to win gold.”
Surbhi from Miranda House added, “Although we came from different colleges, chess created an instant bond among us. We spent time practising and analysing games together. Our common goal was to bring the North Zone title to Delhi University and make our institution proud.”
Varshita Jain, a final-year SRCC student, credited supportive professors for helping balance studies and tournaments: “As soon as I have to go for a tournament. Also, my professors are supportive to accommodate internals and deadlines specially for me if I miss out due to sports commitments.” Surbhi emphasized, “Balancing studies and chess requires disciplined time management and clear priorities. Chess, in fact, improves my concentration and decision-making, which helps in my studies as well.”
Post-victory, the team received congratulations from peers and faculty. “Friends from across the university are reaching out to congratulate and even our professors are sending us warm messages which is motivating,” they shared.
Looking ahead, Tanishka aims for the Grand Master title, world championship, and a 2700 rating. Surbhi dreams of representing India internationally.
