India Hosts the Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup with Hopes for Olympic Recognition

India is making strides to elevate Kho Kho, an indigenous sport, with the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup held in New Delhi from January 13 to 19, 2025. With hopes of its inclusion in the Olympic Games, this landmark event is backed by key figures, including Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha.

Usha, a former athlete herself, expressed her excitement about the event, recalling her own experiences with Kho Kho. She highlighted the game’s physical intensity and emphasized its potential for global recognition, advocating for its inclusion in prestigious international sporting events. She also shared the Indian government’s ambitions, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, underscoring the importance of promoting homegrown sports like Kho Kho on the world stage.

The tournament kicked off with an exciting match where India’s men’s team triumphed over Nepal, while the women’s competition featured teams like England and Australia. WWE Hall of Famer, The Great Khali, attended the opening ceremony, sharing his excitement about Kho Kho’s revival. His comments emphasized the sport’s ability to provide youth with positive outlets, offering them a chance to stay away from vices and find new opportunities in sports.

India’s victory over Nepal set the tone for the tournament, with the men’s team, led by captain Pratik Waikar, delivering a solid performance. The competition is not just a celebration of Kho Kho’s rich heritage but also a platform for its potential to reach international audiences.

As the Kho Kho World Cup progresses, the event stands as a crucial step towards the sport’s global expansion and Olympic recognition. Fans are hopeful that it will become a mainstream attraction, just as cricket has garnered worldwide popularity. The international spotlight on Kho Kho could soon see it recognized at the highest levels of global sports.