NEW DELHI: The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) held a high-profile press conference at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium today, outlining its ambitious vision for the sport. Sudhanshu Mittal, President of KKFI, made several key announcements aimed at raising the profile of kho kho globally and nurturing grassroots talent.
In a landmark move, Bollywood superstar Salman Khan was unveiled as the brand ambassador for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, set to take place in 2025. The tournament, expected to see participation from 24 countries, marks a historic moment for the sport, which has its roots deeply embedded in Indian culture.
“We are proud to have Salman Khan onboard. His immense popularity and influence will significantly boost the sport’s visibility on a global scale,” said Mittal.
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Highlighting the roadmap for kho kho, Mittal emphasized the federation’s efforts to include the sport in the 2030 Asian Games and the 2032 Olympics. “We are optimistic about achieving this milestone. Our focus remains on strengthening the sport domestically and internationally, ensuring it meets the highest standards,” he added.
The selection process for the Indian team competing in the World Cup is still underway, with performance in domestic and international tournaments serving as the primary criteria. Mittal stressed the importance of nurturing young talent, noting that the growing popularity of kho kho through initiatives like Khelo India has significantly benefited college-level players.
“Khelo India has provided a robust platform for children to showcase their talent, giving kho kho much-needed momentum at the grassroots level,” Mittal remarked.
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The KKFI, established in 1955, has been at the forefront of promoting kho kho across India and beyond. With initiatives like the Kho Kho World Cup, the federation is working towards transforming the indigenous sport into a global phenomenon.
The inclusion of kho kho in prestigious multi-sport events like the Asian Games and the Olympics would mark a turning point for Indian sports, enabling greater recognition and opportunities for players worldwide.