Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup Kicks Off with Spectacular Opening Ceremony

The inaugural edition of the Kho Kho World Cup kicked off with great enthusiasm on January 13, 2025, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. This marked a significant moment in the history of indigenous sports, bringing together 23 nations for a celebration of Kho Kho, a traditional game originating from India. The opening ceremony was a vibrant spectacle featuring cultural performances and the unveiling of the World Cup trophy. The event has attracted dignitaries and players from around the world, highlighting the sport’s growing international presence.

Key Highlights

Opening Ceremony

• The ceremony began with a sand art projection paying homage to Mother Earth, followed by a ceremonial parade and cultural performances.

Trophy Unveiling

• The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) unveiled the World Cup trophy for both men’s and women’s tournaments, which was met with loud cheers.

Torch Lighting

• The Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, and Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, lit the torch to officially open the tournament.

First Match

• The opening match was between India and Nepal.

Remarks

• Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar praised the sport’s global appeal and emphasized Kho Kho’s potential to reach international levels.
• Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted Kho Kho’s international presence, with over 50 countries now playing the sport.
• KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal expressed his dream of bringing Kho Kho to the international stage.
• IOA President PT Usha called Kho Kho a testament to India’s rich heritage and legacy.
• Tournament Dates: The tournament will continue until January 19, 2025, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup Kicks Off with Spectacular Opening Ceremony
Opening Ceremony	Sand art projection, cultural performances, ceremonial parade.
Trophy Unveiling	Unveiling of World Cup trophy for both men’s and women’s events.
First Match	India vs. Nepal
Dignitaries Present	VP Jagdeep Dhankhar, Union Minister Raksha Khadse, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, IOA President PT Usha, KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal
Torch Lighting	Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Union Minister Raksha Khadse
Tournament Duration	January 13 – January 19, 2025
Number of Participating Nations	23 nations
Venue	Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, New Delhi
Future Aspirations	Potential inclusion of Kho Kho in Asian Games and Olympics