Metrolife: Aniketh all set for Rubik’s world championship

He was fifteen when Aniketh Arya, a student of Sri Bhagwan Mahaveer Jain College, first learned to solve the Rubik’s Cube. He soon started taking part in various competitions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

The 18-year-old recently won the national finals in the ‘Re-scrambles mixed’ category in Red Bull India and Rubik’s Cube World Championship 2018 held in Mumbai. He will now be travelling to Boston to represent India in the World Championship in September. In a conversation with Surupasree Sarmmah, Aniketh talks about his journey and his plans.

How did you get into learning the game?

I used to see a lot of YouTube videos of people solving this puzzle effortlessly. I was curious to know more about it. These videos motivated me to learn this game and with the help of one such YouTube tutorial, I have learned the basics of the game.

Who is your favourite Rubik’s Cube Master?

I look up to Feliks Zemdegs of Australia.

What is your fastest move?

On an average, it is 12 seconds and my fastest is 6.86 seconds.

What interests you about this game?

For every cube, there is a different combination, which helps me think more, as to how I can do better. There is a satisfaction that I get once I solve the cube.

How did you prepare for your competition in Mumbai?

When I was competing for the Bengaluru qualifiers, I worked on 150 solves before going for the competition. I used that trick for the Mumbai championship as well. However, I did only 100 solves. I guess I was lucky to win the national qualifiers.

How was your experience?

It was an excellent experience. Though it was new for me and it was a lot of fun. It was also my first-time visit to Mumbai. I met new people and made a few friends too.

What are some of your Rubik’s Cube skills?

I can solve a cube blindfolded and also with my feet and with just one hand. I can also memorise different sets of scrambles and solve them blindfolded.

What are the benefits of this game?

In the long run, it has increased my concentration level. It is a good exercise to increase memory power too.

You will now be heading to Boston. How is this feeling?

I am thrilled. This will also be my first trip outside India. I am too excited and looking forward to making new friends and seek inspiration from more experienced players.