The Third Eye of Chess – Praggnanandhaa Sees More Than We Do

Science tries to explain it. Engines try to understand it. But maybe the secret behind Praggnanandhaa runs deeper than we think.

While we, mere mortals, spend 10 minutes deciding whether to trade a bishop for a knight, he's already spotted a 14-move checkmate — probably with his eyes closed, thinking about his snack break.

But what if I told you there’s a mystical explanation behind all this?

Spoiler: It’s on his forehead.

The “Third Eye” of Chess
If you’ve ever seen a photo or a game of Praggnanandhaa, you might’ve noticed that little mark on his forehead. That’s no accident. That’s tradition. That’s faith.
But maybe... it’s also something more.

Known as vibhuti or tilaka, it’s a mark commonly worn by devotees of the god Shiva. It represents purity, focus, and spirituality.

But in Pragg’s case, we’re starting to suspect it might also work as a tactical calculation antenna.
He doesn’t just see the board — he sees between the diagonals.

(Almost) Supernatural Evidence
In Wijk aan Zee, he made a knight maneuver that even confused Carlsen.

In Bucharest, he won the tiebreak as if playing with his eyes closed.

Against Ding Liren, it felt like he had already read his opponent’s mind three moves in advance.

Coincidence?
Or was the third eye fully open that day?

The Ritual
Ever since I noticed this, I’ve started a new ritual before my Chess.com games:
I draw a dot on my forehead with a marker, light some incense, take a deep breath, and visualize a mate on h7.

The result? I’m still getting mated in 3…
But now with way more spiritual flair.

Thank you, Pragg.
For reminding me that in chess, not everything is measured in centipawns.
Sometimes, the secret lies in faith.
Other times… it’s right on your forehead.

P.S.: This is just a lighthearted joke. I have nothing but admiration and respect for Indian culture, the faith it represents, and the brilliant GM Praggnanandhaa.