Empowering Young Minds Through Chess
For the Children. By the Children. A youth-led movement using chess as a tool to transform lives across Assam.
About Us
Pawns to Kings is a non-profit initiative founded by two young Indian chess prodigies from Assam — Vihaan Upadhyay (14yrs) and Viraj Upadhyay (12yrs) — both FIDE-certified Arena FIDE Masters.
With guidance from senior family members, an International Grandmaster, and two International Masters from Serbia and West Bengal, the organization is dedicated to empowering vulnerable children through the life-changing game of chess.
We believe that every child, regardless of their background, deserves access to structured play, purpose, and possibility. We are proud to be an initiative for the children, by the children.
Our Mission
• Introduce chess as a tool for emotional and intellectual growth among vulnerable children.
• Reach children in child care institutions, flood relief shelters, rehabilitation centres, and juvenile observation homes.
• Create opportunities for personal excellence, life skills, and confidence building through structured chess education.
• Build a sustainable youth-led model of mentorship, learning, and community outreach.
Our Vision
To empower underprivileged children through chess by fostering cognitive development, emotional resilience, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills.
Our Initiatives
UJJIBON (Revival)
Target Group: Children in orphanages, juvenile centers, rehab facilities, and observation homes.
This initiative uses chess to build resilience, confidence, and focus among children who have been affected by trauma, conflict with law, or social exclusion. Workshops are conducted in a safe, engaging, and empowering environment.
Project CHILD (Chess for Hope, Inclusivity and Life Skills Development)
Target Group: Children in flood-affected, disaster-prone areas.
This program brings chess-based workshops to Community Facilitation Resource Centres (CFRCs) and relief shelters. Designed as a psychosocial tool, Project CHILD helps children displaced by floods cope, connect, and rebuild their sense of normalcy.
Become A Volunteer
Are you a chess lover, mentor, or someone who wants to make a difference? Join our team of volunteers to teach, support, and grow with us.
• Chess Trainers & Students
• College Volunteers
• Psychosocial Support Partners
Donate
Every move you make can change a life. Support us in bringing chess to every child who needs a reason to rise. Your donation helps us buy chess sets, train volunteers, and conduct workshops across Assam.
Photo Gallery
Pamohi De-addiction Centre Workshop in Guwahati
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Past Events
Snehabandhan Orphanage Workshop
Join us for our annual winter chess tournament featuring competitive matches and exciting gameplay in a festive atmosphere.
• Juvenile Centre Workshop in Silchar
A celebration of chess mastery with exhibitions and demonstrations from grandmasters and professional players.
• Project CHILD – CFRC Silchar
Perfect for newcomers to chess, this workshop covers basic rules, strategies, and fundamental techniques.
News and Updates
International Chess Day 2025
Date: 20th July 2025 Venue: South Point School, Guwahati
Upcoming Event