A Landmark Day for The Global Growth of Kho Kho in World

SUDHANSHU MITTAL ( President, KKFI )

Kho Kho, a sport which resonates with every Bharatwasi, is today popular worldwide and stands at par with any other competitive sport.

Over the last decade, under the patronage of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), the sport has taken a significant leap in terms of its presence both domestically and internationally. Its footprint now extends to over 680 districts across India, is played in schools all over the country, and its global presence is in more than 55 countries across all six continents.

I extend my sincere thanks to KKFI's Former General Secretary Mr. M.S. Tyagi, along with all office-bearers of the KKFI, International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF), and all other federations, as well as our players, coaches, technical officials, and members of the media, for their relentless efforts in advancing the cause of Kho Kho.

The KKFI has been instrumental in organising the Ultimate Kho Kho League, launched in 2022, which has led to a surge in the popularity of the game among audiences of all ages, particularly Gen Z. The second Season of the League, which was telecast over the Sony Sports network, garnered over 21 million viewers. Now, we are gearing up for the third Season of the Ultimate Kho Kho League, which is going to be all the more exciting and engaging with participation from international players for the first time.

The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, held at Indira Gandhi Stadium, New Delhi, from January 13th to January 19th, was a landmark moment in the history of Kho Kho and stands as one of our greatest achievements. It had participation from 39 teams from 23 nations across all 6 continents, with over 800 participants. Furthermore, it was broadcast live on Star Sports, DD, and streamed on Disney+Hotstar and garnered over 460.2 million cumulative views- an impressive testament to its rising appeal and digital readiness.

The recently held 57th Senior National Kho Kho Championship in Puri was historic in many ways, including a record participation of nearly 80 teams, the highest in the championship’s history. The 4th Asian Kho Kho Championship 2023, held in Tamulpur, Assam, saw participation from nine Asian countries.

Today, Kho Kho is not just another game—it is a catalyst that has transformed the lives of thousands of players. Apart from government job opportunities, the sport has brought recognition and fame to many athletes, inspiring the youth to take it up with renewed passion. The awards and grants federation confers, such as the Ekalavya Award, Rani Laxmibai Award, Janaki Award, Abhimanyu Award, Ila Awards, & Bharat Award, have served as a powerful source of inspiration for athletes. These are in addition to the prestigious national honors like the Arjuna Award, Khel Ratna, and Dronacharya Award instituted by the Government. Kho Kho is now increasingly seen on par with other mainstream sports that offer both financial rewards and public acclaim, making it a compelling career path for aspiring sportspersons.

Upkar Singh Virk ( General Secretary, KKFI )

Kho Kho is a traditional sport that is full of energy, agility, strength, endurance, and quick reflexes. Today, it has evolved into a modern game but has kept its original spirit alive. It is now played on mats in indoor stadiums, a Decision Review System (DRS) has been introduced for accurate and timely decisions, and sports science is now a key part of the game, with a focus on nutrition, psychology, and training.

Kho Kho has become popular among the youth, and this growing interest gives hope for its bright future. The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), under the leadership of its President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, has taken active steps to promote Kho Kho both in India and around the world.

It is a matter of pride that more than 3,000 Kho Kho players have been given jobs in various government departments under the sports quota. This support helps players and their families and also motivates young athletes to keep pursuing the sport. Many universities and colleges also offer admission to Kho Kho players through the sports quota.

Kho Kho is steadily growing, and events like the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025 and Ultimate Kho Kho League are helping to build its reputation as a global sport. These efforts are bringing it closer to being included in major international competitions like the Asian Games and the Olympics.

Shri MS Tyagi (Chairman ( Organisation & Administration), KKFI )

Kho Kho is more than just a sport—it is the very lifeblood for thousands of athletes and coaches, transforming lives by bestowing purpose, recognition, and a sense of belonging. My association with Kho Kho spans over six and a half decades as a player, coach, and administrator. This journey has been deeply enriching, especially witnessing the sport’s remarkable evolution in the past decade under the visionary leadership of KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal. His relentless pursuit of excellence and competitiveness has elevated Kho Kho, carving a distinct niche for it in the landscape of modern competitive sports.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mittal Ji on his re-election as KKFI President for a third consecutive term. His unwavering mission to expand Kho Kho globally and secure its place in elite sporting arenas such as the Asian Games and the Olympics is truly commendable. I also warmly congratulate my successor, Shri Upkar Singh Virk, who will now oversee the federation's affairs as General Secretary. His vast experience as both a sportsman and administrator will undoubtedly contribute immensely to the movement that KKFI has so passionately built.

My sincere congratulations go out to all the newly elected and nominated members of the Executive Committee, who now shoulder the responsibility of carrying this mission forward. Rest assured, I will always be available to offer my guidance and support for the cause of Kho Kho, and I remain committed to working for its advancement for as long as I live.