India Secures Historic Double Victory in Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup

Bhubaneswar: India has etched its name in history with a stunning double victory in the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, defeating Nepal in both the men’s and women’s finals to clinch the championship titles. The event, held from January 13 to 19 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi, marked a momentous occasion for one of India’s most cherished indigenous sports.

The Indian women’s team dominated the final, securing a decisive 78-40 victory over Nepal. The men’s team followed suit, defeating their Nepali counterparts with a score of 54-36. The finals showcased thrilling performances and underscored India’s supremacy in the sport.

Odisha’s Sports Minister, Suryabanshi Suraj, attended the final matches and expressed his pride in the achievement. Congratulating the teams, he said, “Kho Kho is our indigenous sport, and this historic victory in the inaugural World Cup fills us with pride and glory. As a proud sponsor of the Indian National Kho Kho Teams, Odisha is committed to supporting their growth. This golden victory marks a new chapter in Kho Kho’s legacy and will inspire millions of young athletes across the nation to pursue excellence in sports.”

The contributions of Odisha players added a special touch to India’s triumph. Magai Majhi and Subhashree Singh represented the women’s team, while Pabani Sabar played for the men’s team. Their exceptional performances highlighted Odisha’s role in nurturing sporting talent.

The Odisha government has been instrumental in supporting Kho Kho’s development. It recently announced a three-year sponsorship for the Indian National Kho Kho Teams, committing ₹5 crore annually from January 2025 to December 2027, totaling ₹15 crore. This initiative aims to promote the sport’s growth and nurture athletes for greater success on the global stage.

India’s historic double victory in the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup not only celebrates the resurgence of an indigenous sport but also sets a strong foundation for its future on the international stage.