57th Senior National Kho Kho Championship Kicks Off in Puri with Grand Inaugural Ceremony and Historic Milestones
Puri, 31 March
The 57th Senior National Kho Kho Championship commenced with grandeur at the District Sports Complex, as both the men’s and women’s teams marched past to the stirring tune of the India’s patriotic song “Saare Jahan Se Achha” Taking place from March 31 to April 4, this edition marks a historic milestone in Kho Kho Nationals, being the first to feature all matches played on mats.
With 40 men’s and 40 women’s teams competing, it also boasts the highest team participation in the tournament’s history. The ceremony witnessed a vibrant cultural spectacle, with artists in colorful traditional attire captivating the audience with enthralling folk dance performances.
Dignitaries present on the occasion included the President of Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, General Secretary KKFI Shri M.S. Tyagi, Odisha Kho Kho Association Secretary Shri Pradyumna Mishra, and Rajya Sabha MP Subhashish Khuntia, along with other officials and eminent guests. A highlight of the event was the display of magnificent championship trophies for the winning men’s and women’s teams.
The traditional lamp-lighting ceremony was led by Sudhanshu Mittal and other dignitaries, marking the official commencement of the championship.
“Within just 20 days, we have successfully organized the Nationals in Puri. I thank all including KKFI President Mittal Ji and others for making it possible,” said Pradyumna Mishra in his welcome address.
Rajya Sabha MP Subhashish Khuntia, said, “I have been a handball player and have competed at the district, state, and national levels. Kho Kho is all about teamwork and team spirit. The Nationals of any sport serve as a platform where states build relationships with one another. I wish all the players the very best and hope they excel in sports and in their life.” During the ceremony, KKFI president Sudhanshu Mittal felicitated dignitaries, eminent guests, coaches, and representatives from various state federations with shawls and commemorative shields. Expressing his gratitude, M.S. Tyagi extended appreciation to all organizers, officials, team members, and state federation representatives, with a special mention of the players’ relentless dedication and hard work.
In his address, Shri Sudhanshu Mittal reaffirmed the global aspirations of Kho Kho, stating,“Everyone associated with Kho Kho is part of one family. The sport is leaving its imprint worldwide, with the Kho Kho World Cup in India giving it a new identity. We are committed to securing Kho Kho’s inclusion in the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games by 2030 and the Olympics by 2032. This will only be possible through the dedication, skill, and perseverance of our players, who are taking Kho Kho to new heights.”
On Day 1, 56 matches were scheduled including both the Men and Women in various groups. With 40 men’s and 40 women’s teams, this championship records the highest participation in Kho Kho Nationals' history.
A total of 190 matches—including 160 league and 30 knockout games—are scheduled for the championship. This event holds special significance as the first major national-level tournament following the 2025 Kho Kho World Cup, held in January in New Delhi. The global competition saw 39 teams from 23 countries across six continents, with India emerging victorious in both men’s and women’s categories.
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