In a historic first for the indigenous sport, players from India’s men’s and women’s Kho Kho World Cup champion teams will attend the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort as special guests. This marks the first time Kho Kho players will be part of the nation’s Independence Day ceremony.
Earlier this year, both teams created history by winning the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, held at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium from 13 to 19 January 2025.
The event featured 39 teams — 20 men’s and 19 women’s — from 23 countries across six continents.
A Proud Sporting Moment
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation from the iconic Red Fort on 15 August. This year’s celebrations will host about 5,000 special guests from different fields, including sportspersons, innovators, and community leaders.
“It is a great promotion for the indigenous sport of Kho Kho. I have only watched Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations on television. This will be the first time I attend with my teammates. It is a great feeling,” said Nirmala Bhati, from the women’s champion team.
Men’s team captain Pratik Waikar said, “We feel elated that Kho Kho players have been invited for the first time. It is a proud moment for us. We thank KKFI president Sudhanshu Mittal and MS Tyagi for their support.”
Recognition for Indigenous Sport
KKFI chief praised the players’ journey of dedication, perseverance, and passion.
“They have fought odds to carve their destinies. This invitation is a tribute to the sport’s rising stature,” he said.
The Chairman of Administration & Organisation, KKFI, added, “When our players stand for the National Anthem at the Red Fort, it will be a proud moment for the Kho Kho fraternity. We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya for honouring the ‘Jaabaaz’ players of Bharatiya Khel.”
This milestone reflects Kho Kho’s growing recognition and the government’s commitment to promoting indigenous sports on national and global platforms.
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