India’s indigenous game, Kho Kho, is taking a historic leap onto the global stage with the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. Scheduled from January 13-19 at the iconic Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi, this event signifies more than just an international sports competition. It marks the start of a new era for Indian heritage, as the nation showcases its cultural pride under the visionary initiative, Nation First and Vishwa Guru Bharat Abhiyan.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his statement he narrated – it is about celebrating our identity, our unity, and our vision for a greater global presence.
“Kho Kho is not just a game; it is a part of India’s soul. Unlike other sports that India adopted from abroad, Kho Kho is our very own – a ‘Made in India’ marvel. As we host the world, we invite everyone to witness the essence of India’s spirit. This World Cup is not just about sports; it is about celebrating our identity, our unity, and our vision for a greater global presence.
During the interaction, one of the student-athletes asked PM Modi,
“Which sports do you like the most?”
To this, PM Modi replied, “India should progress well in the world of sports and that’s why I am promoting these things quite a lot. But, hockey, football, kabaddi, and Kho Kho are connected with our soil. We should never lag behind in these sports.””
Kho Kho: From Desi Khel to Global Sport
Kho Kho has come a long way from being a simple pastime played in village fields to a professional, mat-based sport recognized across 54 countries. Deeply rooted in India’s rural traditions, the game reflects speed, strategy, and teamwork – qualities that resonate with the essence of the nation itself.
The transition of Kho Kho into an international phenomenon represents the strength of India’s cultural legacy. Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, the President of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), expressed his vision for the sport during the announcement:
“We are incredibly excited to host the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup. This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about bringing nations together, promoting cultural exchange, and showcasing the beauty and intensity of Kho Kho to the world. Our ultimate goal is to see Kho Kho recognized as an Olympic sport by 2032, and this World Cup is the first step towards that dream.”
A Global Celebration
The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 will bring together 24 nations from six continents, including 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams, making it a grand global spectacle. Teams from Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and Oceania will converge in New Delhi to vie for the championship title.
Participating Nations
- Asia: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Iran, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
- Europe: England, Germany, Netherlands, and Poland.
- North America: USA
- South America: Brazil, Peru, and Argentina.
- Africa: Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa.
- Oceania: Australia and New Zealand.
This week-long event is not merely a competition; it is a platform for cultural exchange, global unity, and sporting diplomacy. Each match will showcase the intensity, speed, and strategy that define Kho Kho, while the event itself will provide participants and audiences with an experience of India’s hospitality and cultural richness.
A Step Towards Olympic Dreams
The World Cup aims to propel Kho Kho onto the international sporting stage, with a broader objective of achieving recognition as an Olympic sport by 2032. This journey is not just about gaining prestige but about inspiring youth globally and creating an inclusive sporting culture.
Why Kho Kho Matters
- A True ‘Made in India’ Sport: Unlike other popular sports in India that were introduced by foreign influences, Kho Kho is entirely Indian in origin. Its values align with the ethos of the Nation First and Vishwa Guru Bharat Abhiyan, emphasizing pride in indigenous heritage.
- Global Appeal: The sport’s simplicity, intensity, and competitive spirit make it appealing to players and spectators alike.
- Youth Engagement: By introducing Kho Kho to the world stage, India is opening doors for young athletes from diverse backgrounds to shine.
A Vision Beyond Borders
The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 is more than an event; it is a mission to position India as a leader in preserving and promoting indigenous sports. With over 20,000 spectators expected at the Indira Gandhi Stadium and millions more watching globally, the tournament will leave an indelible mark on the world sports map.
This moment is a reflection of India’s journey from being a nation that adopted global sports to becoming a global leader showcasing its own. The Nation First and Vishwa Guru Bharat Abhiyan symbolizes this transformation, making the inaugural World Cup not just a sporting event, but a cultural renaissance.
As the players step onto the mat, they will not only compete for glory but also carry the weight of a nation’s pride, echoing the words of Mr. Prince Raj ( Founder of Kho Kho Champions).
“Kho Kho is more than a game; it is a movement. Let the world see the rhythm of our roots and the power of our people.”
With this spirit, the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 is set to create a legacy that will inspire generations, uniting the world through the game that India calls its own.