NEW DELHI: In a significant moment for Indian traditional sports, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) has officially announced the dates and logo for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup. The tournament will take place from January 13 to 19, 2025, in New Delhi, marking the sport’s entry onto the global stage.
The announcement was made at a grand event held at Thyagraj Stadium, where an exhibition match between Team Maharashtra and the Rest of India took place. In a thrilling contest, Maharashtra emerged victorious with a close score of 26-24, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the World Cup’s official logo and its tagline, #TheWorldGoesKho, which was met with great excitement. The ceremony, attended by hundreds of young athletes and school students, sparked enthusiasm for the sport and set the tone for what is expected to be a landmark moment in its history.
The 2025 Kho Kho World Cup will feature participation from 24 nations, with both men’s and women’s teams competing. A total of 16 teams in each division will battle for the championship, making it a truly global competition.
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KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal expressed pride in the sport’s progress, saying, “Kho Kho is a sport rooted in the soil of India. We are immensely proud to bring it to the international arena. A big thank you to the federation for their tireless efforts in elevating Kho Kho to this level. After the success of the Ultimate Kho Kho League, we are now ready to take this sport to the next step with the first Kho Kho World Cup.”
Shrimati Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, also graced the occasion, highlighting the significance of Kho Kho in India’s cultural history. “Kho Kho has been part of our heritage since the time of the Mahabharata. The government is committed to promoting indigenous sports, and hosting the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup is a step forward in that direction. I congratulate KKFI on their efforts, particularly in the area of sports science, which will further enhance the game.”
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Mr. Nishant Pitti, CEO and Co-founder of EaseMyTrip, the official partner for the event, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to be the official partner for the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. This event not only highlights the vibrant spirit of Kho Kho but also paves the way for its inclusion in international competitions like the Olympics and Asian Games. Just as EaseMyTrip strives for excellence in the travel industry, we are committed to supporting Kho Kho’s journey to global recognition.”
The 2025 World Cup is set to transform Kho Kho from a beloved Indian sport to a global spectacle, with India leading the charge. The event promises to be an extraordinary celebration of speed, strategy, and sporting prowess.