The four-day programme organised by King's Chess Academy will explore hidden moves, intermediate moves, and subtle opportunities that can escape notice even in strong games. Drawing on his study of elite players’ missed chances and critical mistakes, Lokeswara Rao will guide participants through practical positions and decision-making concepts. The sessions will be interactive, with time each day to analyse games and positions, ask questions, and get feedback.
About the event
The programme is designed for emerging players looking to strengthen their practical understanding, decision-making, and confidence in complex positions. Sessions will be interactive and concept-based, with participants working through positions related to the ideas discussed. Each day will also include a dedicated analysis hour to discuss games, positions, and practical challenges with the coach.
Rao has previously conducted two chess camps in Visakhapatnam. One was designed for players rated above 2200, and its participants included IM Ajay Santhosh, WIM Sahithi Varshini, CM Mummana Venkata Ruthvik, and FM Nihal Swarna. The new Hyderabad masterclass follows those camps, bringing the same practical focus to a limited group of players.
The masterclass is primarily for players with a peak rating of 2000 or higher. Players who have finished in the top five at an age-group National Championship are also eligible, regardless of their current rating, and qualify for a 50% discount on the fee. Preference may be given to players who have won National or International age-group championships.
Event details
Dates: October 7–10, 2026
Venue: Plot Number 301, Road Number 11, Jubilee Hills, Lane Beside VACS Bakery, Beside Happy Kids School, Hyderabad, Telangana 500045
Daily timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Fee: Rs. 8,000 for four days
Eligibility: Primarily players with a peak rating of 2000+; top-five finishers at an age-group National Championship are also eligible and receive a 50% discount
Maximum participants: 15
Registration deadline: October 6 at 5:00 PM
Contact: 94944 22255
About The Coach
Lokeswara Rao, known as Lokesh, is a chess trainer and the father of WGM Sahithi Varshini. He was Sahithi’s first coach. Though he had long dreamed of becoming a professional chess player, his own plans did not work out. He then decided to help one of his daughters pursue the dream. One evening, after returning home from work, he began teaching chess to his elder daughter, Sahithi. Apart from Sahithi, his students also include IM Ajay Santhosh and FM Aarav Sinha.
Students’ achievements
Coach Lokeswara Rao’s students have earned titles, norms, medals, and significant rating gains across international events.
WGM Sahithi Varshini
Sahithi earned the Woman Grandmaster title after completing the required norms and title requirements. Her achievements also include gold medals at the Asian Under-10, Asian Under-12, and Commonwealth Under-10 girls’ events, and representing India at the Chess Olympiad.
Ajay Santhosh Parvathareddy
He crossed a 2500 rating, earned two Grandmaster norms, and won medals at the Baku Open, Dhanpatrai Memorial, and 360 One Masters Open.
Aarav Sinha
He has earned four International Master norms.
During a single European circuit, several students also made notable rating gains: Nihal Parvathaneni (+359 Elo), Kola Akshith (+270), Kola Akshay (+200), Kamala Priya B (+233), and Kanishka Choudary (+190).
Sample positions to explore
Vidit Gujrathi vs Nihal Sarin
In the Vidit–Nihal position, Black has played d4. Participants will examine why it may be an inaccuracy, what hidden motifs and resources are available to both sides, and how White can respond.
Savitha Shri vs Zhai Mo
Why is Kg7 a serious mistake, and what resource should Black find to create counterplay?
Working through questions like these will give participants a chance to practise looking beyond the obvious and uncovering possibilities for both players.
The masterclass draws on Rao’s experience and his study of critical mistakes and missed opportunities in elite games. Participants will work through practical positions and explore how to spot hidden moves, intermediate moves, and subtle resources. To secure your spot, register now!
