New Delhi
India is set to host the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup from Jan 13 to 19 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) joining hands with the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) to promote this indigenous sport globally, IOA announced on Monday.
IOA President PT Usha expressed her support, emphasizing the event’s role in celebrating India’s cultural heritage and elevating traditional sports. “This collaboration with KKFI aims to make the tournament a grand success, fostering sportsmanship and global appreciation for Kho Kho,” Usha stated in a message to KKFI Chief Sudhanshu Mittal.
Mittal called the partnership a “game-changer” that will spotlight Kho Kho on the international stage. “This historic event marks a pivotal moment for the sport,” he added.
The World Cup will feature men’s and women’s teams from 25 countries across six continents. Competing nations include India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka from Asia; Ghana and Kenya from Africa; and teams from Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania, including England, Germany, Brazil, and Australia. The collaboration is seen as a significant step in promoting Kho Kho globally, ensuring its legacy is recognized beyond India’s borders.
