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India is set to make history in 2025 as it prepares to host the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, announced by the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) and the International Kho Kho Federation.
This landmark event will see 24 countries from 6 continents compete, featuring 16 men’s teams and 16 women’s teams, making it the biggest international showcase for the sport yet.
In the lead-up to the World Cup, KKFI has ambitious plans to expand Kho Kho’s reach.
They aim to introduce the sport to over 200 elite schools across 10 cities, promoting its cultural and competitive significance.
Additionally, the federation has set a target of registering 50 lakh student players as part of a national membership drive, further boosting Kho Kho’s visibility and participation ahead of the global tournament.
‘Hosting Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup Is Step Towards Olympic Dreams’
Sudhanshu Mittal, President of KKFI, highlighted the broader significance of this event.
He stated, “We are incredibly excited to host the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup. This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about bringing nations together, promoting cultural exchange, and showcasing the beauty and intensity of Kho Kho to the world. Our ultimate goal is to see Kho Kho recognised as an Olympic sport by 2032, and this World Cup is the first step towards that dream.”
Likely to take place over a week, the tournament will however feature intense matches, with elite athletes from around the world demonstrating speed, agility, and teamwork.
The aim is to elevate Kho Kho to international prominence, with the hope that the sport will soon earn its place in the Olympic Games.
With its roots deeply embedded in Indian soil, Kho Kho has evolved from being a traditional mud sport to a global phenomenon, played by 54 countries worldwide.
The World Cup is likely to spotlight this unique Indian game, while also advancing its aspirations for global recognition and inclusion in the 2032 Olympics.
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