Prasanna Raghuram Rao IM

Prasanna Raghuram Rao - The International Master Extraordinaire

Known in the online realm as Praschess, Prasanna Raghuram Rao is an International Master who has been climbing the blitz charts like a knight on a mission. With a FIDE title that commands respect, Prasanna’s chess journey is anything but ordinary.

A Journey Through the Ranks

Starting out modestly with blitz ratings barely cracking the 1500 mark in early 2018, Prasanna has steadily marched through the chaos of pawns and kings, reaching a peak blitz rating of an astonishing 2823 in December 2024. That's no typo – in blitz chess, where every second counts, this player dances through the battlefield with speed and cunning.

Playing Style & Personality

Prasanna’s playstyle can be summed up as a delightful mix of patience and tactical fireworks. A lover of deep endgames (as 82.14% of their games see some endgame action), Prasanna tends to indulge in battles longer than your average match, averaging nearly 76 moves per win. When the going gets tough, they get going – boasting an impressive 85.39% comeback rate, proving that resigning is not an option (although the early resignation rate is a feisty 0.69%, so maybe just sometimes).

Tactical Wizardry & Signature Moves

From the secretive depths of "Top Secret" openings to trusty lines like the London System and Indian Game East Indian Przepiorka Variation, Prasanna’s opening repertoire is eclectic and sharp. Don't expect a straightforward game – this International Master is a master of mixing it up and keeping opponents perpetually guessing. Their blitz win rates hover around 48% on their favorite unknown opening, proving that even mystery can be mighty.

Record, Rivalries, and Rival Analysis

With well over 3,300 blitz games logged, Prasanna has collected an impressive 1,625 wins, though equally seasoned with some tough losses, embodying the true spirit of chess combat. Notorious rivals include gmhess and ekurtz, with whom they've tussled almost two dozen times. For friendly banter, opponents like aliencowboy have a win rate under 50% — and yes, Prasanna is happy to brag.

Peak Moments and Latest Battles

Impressive recent victories have cemented Prasanna’s status as a player to watch. Highlight reels include opponents bowing out to Prasanna’s strategic pressure – such as the latest win against misha_balak in a Sicilian Defense where resignation was the only option left on the table.

But even masters stumble: recent losses on time or by checkmate remind us that every king has its vulnerabilities, even one with Prasanna’s sharp blade.

Fun Facts

• Most comfortable playing chess at 10 AM, when the brain is fresh and the coffee is still hot.
• Has clocked a blitz game with an average of over 2,700 rating in 2024 – basically the Scorpion King of rapid-fire chess.
• Top wins come from the mysterious “Top Secret” opening – sounds like Prasanna’s got a few tricks up their sleeve!
• Enjoys late night chess too — peak performance sometimes comes at hour 22 with a win rate near 59%.

Whether you consider chess a science or an art, Prasanna Raghuram Rao plays it like a magician wielding an enchanted board. Approach the game against Praschess with respect — and maybe a hint of awe — as the International Master continues their quest for checkmate excellence.