Puri, Odisha – The 57th Senior National Kho Kho Championship is set to take place from March 31 to April 4 at the District Sports Complex, Puri, bringing together the nation’s top Kho Kho talent. With 74 teams, including 30 state teams and renowned institutional squads like the Airport Authority, Railways, BSF, Maharashtra Police, and CISF, the event promises intense competition.
A Landmark Event for Kho Kho in India
Organized under the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), the championship is another step forward in the sport’s rapid growth. KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal highlighted the federation’s vision, stating:
“Our vision extends beyond national boundaries; we are dedicated to transforming Kho Kho into a global sport. The upcoming championship in Puri is a testament to our ongoing efforts to modernize the game and showcase its dynamic appeal.”
Odisha’s Growing Kho Kho Infrastructure
Odisha has been actively fostering Kho Kho talent. A Kho Kho Academy and High-Performance Center has been operational in Puri for the past ten months, providing specialized training to emerging players. Additionally, a proposal for a dedicated Kho Kho stadium at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, is awaiting final approval, further solidifying Odisha’s role in the sport’s development.
A Major Sporting Event for Odisha
Pradyumna Mishra, General Secretary of the Odisha Kho Kho Association, expressed his excitement:
“We are excited to host the 57th Senior National Kho Kho Championship in Puri, a city with a growing sporting culture. This event will showcase top-tier talent and further elevate the popularity of Kho Kho in India.”
Kho Kho’s Growing Global Recognition
The championship follows a landmark moment for Indian Kho Kho – the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, where India’s men’s and women’s teams emerged victorious at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on January 19.
With the nation’s best players competing in Puri, this championship is expected to play a crucial role in further elevating Kho Kho in India and beyond.