Sharper memory & focus
Visualising positions and recalling patterns trains concentration and memory that carry into the classroom.
Led by Karnataka's first Grandmaster
Where champions begin their journey
Structured training by Grandmasters that builds skill, strategy, confidence and a winning mindset — from a child's first move to the national stage.
4Structured levels
GMDesigned curriculum
2025National & world medals
Commonwealth U-14 GoldAdhiraj Mishra · Kuala Lumpur 2025
World Cup U-12 Silver
250+Trained
students
students
120+Online classes
every year
every year
5,000+Games
played
played
4National champions
in 2025
in 2025
Head coach & founder
GM Thej Kumar M S
Karnataka's first Grandmaster · 2500+ FIDE
About GMCA
Read the full Grandmaster story
A premier academy for young minds who want to think deeper
Great Minds Chess Academy nurtures young talent through programs designed and led by Grandmaster coaches. Under GM Thej Kumar M S, every student follows a clear path — from fundamentals to tournament preparation — with the discipline and confidence that carries beyond the board.
Thej Kumar began learning chess at 12 under his father's guidance, earned the Grandmaster title at 36 and crossed a 2500 rating in 2017.
Indian National B Championship2013
National Under-25 Championship2003
Liffre Open · Guingamp Open, France2016 · 2017
Karnataka State Open Rapid — a perfect 9/92018
Our locations
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Learn with us, wherever you are
Why chess
More than a game — a way of thinking
Chess is one of the best ways to build a young mind. Here is what students gain from learning and playing regularly.
Problem-solving & logic
Every position is a puzzle. Students learn to weigh options, calculate ahead and find the best answer.
Patience & discipline
Chess rewards slowing down. Children learn to think before they move and to stay calm under pressure.
Strategic planning
Setting goals, building a plan and adapting when it changes — skills that help far beyond the board.
Better academics
Research links regular chess to stronger maths, reading and analytical skills in school.
Confidence & sportsmanship
Winning graciously, losing and learning from it, and competing with respect builds resilient young people.
Our courses
Four levels. One clear path from pawn to queen.
Structured classes for every age and skill level. Each student is placed after an assessment and moves up as they master each stage.
Student achievements
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Our students, on the world stage
Testimonials
What parents and students say about us
Kind words from the families who learn and play with GMCA.
Franchise & schools
Partner with GMCA and build a brighter tomorrow
Bring a Grandmaster-designed chess program to your city or your school — with the curriculum, training and support to run it well.
01
Grandmaster-led growth
Curriculum, teaching materials and branding developed under the guidance of a Grandmaster.
02
A proven success system
Marketing and development support to help your centre attract students and keep them progressing.
03
Build with experts
A standardised curriculum and hands-on operational guidance, from first enquiry to first tournament.
Join now
Become part of our community
Smarter moves today, a brighter tomorrow. Call or message us about your child and we'll suggest the right level and batch.