Kho Kho World Cup 2025 Set to Kick Off in New Delhi

The excitement is palpable as India prepares to host the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, set to take place from January 13 to 19, 2025, at the IGI Stadium in New Delhi. This tournament marks a significant milestone for Kho Kho, an indigenous sport that has deep roots in Indian culture. The event aims to elevate Kho Kho to a global platform, showcasing the rich heritage and competitive spirit of this traditional game.

During the announcement ceremony, an exhibition match was held between Team Maharashtra and the Rest of India, where Team Maharashtra clinched a narrow victory with a score of 26-24. This thrilling match not only highlighted the competitive nature of Kho Kho but also served as a prelude to the excitement that the World Cup promises to deliver. The official logo and tagline, “#TheWorldGoesKho,” were also unveiled, symbolizing the sport's journey from local fields to international arenas.

The Kho Kho World Cup will feature an impressive lineup of 24 nations, with both men's and women's teams vying for the championship title. Each division will consist of 16 teams, setting the stage for intense competition and showcasing the best talent from around the world. Sudhanshu Mittal, the president of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), expressed his pride in bringing this sport to the forefront, stating, “Kho Kho is a sport of our country's mud. So, we are very proud to bring this sport to the mat.” He further emphasized the importance of the Ultimate Kho Kho League in popularizing the sport before this monumental event.

Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Nikhil Khadse, also attended the event and spoke about the historical significance of Kho Kho, noting, “Kho Kho has been a part of our country's history from the time of the Mahabharata.” She highlighted the Indian government's commitment to promoting indigenous games, with the Kho Kho World Cup being a significant step in that direction.

As the countdown to the World Cup begins, the anticipation among players and fans alike continues to grow. This event not only aims to celebrate Kho Kho but also to inspire a new generation of athletes to embrace and participate in traditional sports. The World Cup is expected to foster international camaraderie and sportsmanship, bringing together diverse cultures through the love of the game.

The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup is more than just a tournament; it is a celebration of India's rich sporting heritage. As teams from around the world prepare to compete, the event promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, teamwork, and tradition. For fans and players, this is an opportunity to witness history in the making, as Kho Kho takes its rightful place on the global stage.