We are proud to be
Upstep Academy has been operational since 2005
and is an established name in imparting training and organising international chess tournaments
Presence in
India | USA | Australia | Singapore | UAE | UK
Our Objective
To reach maximum people, learning chess at an early age. Popularizing its benefits that one can attain. Irrespectively, if one wishes to pursue it as a career or learn it as a hobby and a life-skill.
Welcome to the Upstep Academy, where we are passionately dedicated to providing exceptional chess training and coaching to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Led by renowned chess expert Hardik Mehta, our academy brings together a wealth of knowledge and experience in the world of chess.
Hardik Mehta
Business Head
(International Rated Player)
Hardik, a prominent figure in the chess community, possesses an impressive International FIDE peak rating of 2098 and boasts an extensive 15-year background in playing chess. Under Hardik’s guidance, numerous students have not only gained International FIDE ratings but have also achieved remarkable success in State and National tournaments, consistently ranking within the top 10 positions.
In addition to his expertise in chess, Hardik Mehta brings a unique perspective to the academy. As the Offline Business Head, he has amassed extensive experience in managing and leading offline businesses. This blend of chess mastery and business acumen enables us to provide a holistic approach to chess training. We believe that chess goes beyond the board, instilling valuable life skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making, and perseverance, which are applicable in various facets of life.
Abhijit Hatkar
Director
(FIDE Instructor, FIDE Arbiter, International Rated Player)
Abhijit has been constantly juggling and balancing his passion for chess and technology. Now his efforts are directed to synergize for the collective good of the “Game”. With Upstep Academy, his vision is to provide quality training and structured growth. Most importantly, spreading awareness of chess, giving the Game its due status.
He has been a coach, a mentor and an entrepreneur since last 15 years, this vast experience at a very young age has helped him understand child psychology. Moreover, the ability to generate interest in students regarding chess. Also, developing new methods of teaching, analyzing, and building a stronger foundation in them. With this approach, our students have performed at Asian, National, and State Levels. Many have also achieved international ratings.
Salil Ghate
Director
Salil being an avid chess player and an investment banker has implemented many “Firsts” in Upstep Academy. For instance, implementing chess in the school model in 2007, starting from Mumbai later in Bangalore.
He has held various positions at district and state Chess associations. His vision is to popularize chess in kids from a young age. He strongly believes that chess lays a very strong foundation for the future, irrespective of the field that you choose. He says, “You can become anything; A Painter, A Sportsperson, A Scientist, A Mathematician, A Businessperson, An Administrator, A Grandmaster – the skills that chess teaches you will stay with you forever.