About Us
A Vision Shaped by the Game
From the spark of an idea, Mindcastle Chess Academy was founded not merely as an institution, but as a mission-driven space—where the timeless game of chess becomes a path to shaping disciplined, strategic, and creative minds. The academy was founded by Shashank Dhagdhage, an Arena Grand Master and lifelong student of the game, who believed that chess could be more than a pastime—it could be a foundation for life. Starting from humble beginnings in local clubs and university competitions, Shashank’s early mentorship of students set the tone for a deeply personal and impactful coaching philosophy: that great players are not simply trained—they are guided, nurtured, and inspired. What began as a small, passionate initiative grew into an academy with national and global reach.
Our Team Masters
Shashank Dhagdhage – Founder, AGM, and strategic mentor.
Anshuman K – A tactical genius with international accolades across Europe; known for his energetic and engaging teaching style.
Aditya Lakhe – AIM and speed chess specialist; a master of blitz and bullet formats with strong digital acumen.
Swayangsu Satyakam – FIDE Arbiter and National Instructor; the architect of our structured curriculum and deep theoretical focus.
Soham Pokarna – A competitive blitz player who brings tournament-tested strategies into every classroom.
Together, they form the backbone of a coaching team committed to excellence, mentorship, and growth.
Aim
To cultivate a generation of disciplined, strategic, and intellectually enriched individuals through the timeless art of chess, empowering them to excel both on and beyond the board.
Vision
To be a globally respected institution in chess education—uniting tradition, innovation, and mentorship—to shape not only champions of the game, but thinkers, leaders, and lifelong learners.
Mission
To provide holistic chess training through personalized mentorship, world-class coaching, and competitive opportunities—nurturing talent at every level and fostering a community where curiosity, character, and excellence are at the core of every move.
Goal
To establish a lasting ecosystem where chess is not merely taught but lived—a space where students grow from beginners to masters, from learners to leaders, supported by a tradition of excellence, a commitment to integrity, and a passion for the game that endures across generations.
Student Successs
Our students reflect our philosophy. Notable achievements include:
Sharvil Yedekar – Consecutive wins in top U-14 national events.
Pranav Skanda Avasarala – Consistent podium finishes in U.S.-based tournaments.
Coach Soham Pokarna – Recent podium finish in a rated blitz tournament.