New Delhi, 10 December (H.S.): India will host the inaugural edition of the Commonwealth Kho-Kho Championship from March 9 to 14, 2026, marking a historic milestone for the indigenous sport. The Commonwealth Sport has officially approved India as the host nation for the event, which is expected to feature participation from over 24 Commonwealth countries.

The championship will bring together teams from Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, ensuring comprehensive global representation. The Commonwealth, an association of 56 independent nations with a combined population of around 2.7 billion, is poised to witness one of its most culturally rooted sporting spectacles in India.Officials consider the championship a key step toward the global recognition and growth of Kho-Kho.

It will be held after the successful hosting of the first-ever Kho-Kho World Cup earlier this year in New Delhi, which featured 23 nations across six continents, with 20 men’s and 19 women’s teams competing.

Speaking about the event, Kho-Kho Federation of India (KKFI) Secretary-General Upkar Singh Virk said discussions with several state governments are underway to finalize the venue. “We are in advanced discussions with multiple states and will announce the host city soon,” Virk stated.

“Ahead of Ahmedabad’s possible bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, this championship will serve as a crucial stepping stone toward Kho-Kho’s inclusion in major international events such as the Doha Asian Games 2030, Commonwealth Games 2030, and the Brisbane Olympics 2032.”

Promoters of Kho-Kho believe the tournament will not only boost India’s position as the global hub for traditional sports but also inspire the next generation to engage with homegrown athletic traditions on international platforms.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar