The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup is set to take place at Thyagraj Stadium from January 13 to 19 next year, as announced by the tournament organisers on Wednesday. The event aims to highlight India’s indigenous sport on an international platform.
An exhibition match between Team Maharashtra and the Rest of India was held during the announcement ceremony, with Maharashtra securing a 26-24 victory. The official logo of the World Cup and the tagline #TheWorldGoesKho were also unveiled at the function.
The tournament will feature 24 nations, with both men’s and women’s teams competing. Each division will have 16 teams, setting the stage for a fierce competition.
“Kho Kho is rooted in the soil of our country. We take great pride in bringing this sport to the mat. A big thanks to the federation for its hard work in making Kho Kho an international sport,” said Sudhanshu Mittal, president of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI).
He added, “We first introduced the sport to fans through the Ultimate Kho Kho League, and now we are moving forward with the first Kho Kho World Cup”.
Also in attendance was Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, who remarked, “Kho Kho has been part of our country’s history since the Mahabharata era. The Indian government is promoting various indigenous games, and hosting the first Kho Kho World Cup in 2025 is a significant step in that direction.”
She also congratulated the KKFI for their work in advancing the sport, particularly in the area of sports science, elevating the game to a new level.
(With Inputs From PTI)
