Did Chess Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa swap pawns for Jenga? Viral video shows him chilling at home

Even chess champs need a break, and India’s top Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa just proved it. Swapping intense games and strategy for a stack of wobbly blocks, Praggnanandhaa found his fun fix in a friendly game of Jenga at home. The viral video shows him laughing, concentrating, and struggling to keep the tower from tumbling—reminding fans that even the world’s best minds need moments to unwind and just have fun.

Jenga over checkmates

Between a packed chess calendar and high-stakes tournaments, Praggnanandhaa is finding ways to relax. Posting the video on X, he explained that while chess demands intense focus, Jenga also tests his nerves in a fun and lighthearted way. He added that playing with friends is a great way to unwind and share some laughs, showing off his playful side away from the chessboard.

From crushing competition to carefully placing Jenga blocks, Praggnanandhaa shows that even elite athletes need downtime. Whether it’s a high-pressure chess tournament or a casual game with friends, the chess star proves that skill, focus, and a little fun go hand in hand—and fans are loving this candid, relatable side of a global chess sensation.

Internet reacts

International chess player Venkat Saravanan playfully called out Praggnanandhaa for using both hands in Jenga, joking that he should stick to one hand for his moves. Others joined in on the fun, teasing him about committing a “foul” and giving a red card for two-handed moves. Fans also shared their reactions, noting how Jenga, like chess, demands focus but also keeps you on edge, and praised Praggnanandhaa for his amazing concentration and the rollercoaster of emotions a single game can bring.