In a historic triumph for Indian sport, India’s men’s and women’s teams emerged as champions at the inaugural Kho Kho World Championship, held at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune. With this double victory, India has firmly established itself as a global powerhouse in the traditional sport of kho kho.
The Indian men’s team defeated Nepal in a high-octane final match with a scoreline of 54-37. Displaying remarkable speed, coordination, and tactical brilliance, India took early control and maintained dominance throughout the game. Captain Ravi Kumar credited the victory to “months of intense preparation and a united team effort.”
In the women’s final, India overpowered Bangladesh 49-27 in a dynamic display of agility and defensive skill. The match saw standout performances from vice-captain Pooja Yadav and all-rounder Sneha More, who turned the tide decisively in India’s favour.
Organized by the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF), the championship featured teams from over 20 countries, including England, Sri Lanka, Iran, Kenya, and the Philippines — a major step in the globalization of this indigenous Indian sport. The tournament was held in a league-cum-knockout format and witnessed enthusiastic global participation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated both teams via social media, calling the twin victories “a proud moment for Indian sports and a tribute to our cultural legacy.”
Kho kho, traditionally played in rural India, has seen rapid modernization in recent years, including the launch of the Ultimate Kho Kho League and increasing international interest. The world championship win is expected to boost the sport’s visibility and encourage youth participation across the country.
With both trophies in hand, India has not only topped the podium but also revived national pride in one of its oldest sporting traditions.
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