Kazipet, Telangana , 12 January (H.S.): The 58th Senior National Kho-Kho Championship for men and women (2025-26) commenced with majestic pomp on Sunday, January 11, at the Railway Stadium in Kazipet, drawing over 1,400 players from across India to showcase the indigenous sport's surging prominence.

Lavish Inauguration Captivates Crowds

The opening ceremony enthralled spectators through team parades, disciplined NCC march-pasts, and vibrant cultural performances, setting an electrifying tone for the fortnight-long event organized impeccably by the Telangana Kho-Kho Association.

Leaders Champion Kho-Kho's Global Ambitions

Kho-Kho Federation of India (KKFI) President Sudhanshu Mittal lauded the organizers, remarking, Witnessing such grand Senior Nationals with massive participation fills me with immense joy. Players from every corner of the nation have converged here, each harboring dreams of elevating our sport to new heights.Our goal remains securing Kho-Kho's inclusion in the 2030 Commonwealth Games, a vision we shall undoubtedly realize.

Sports Minister Vakiti Srihari echoed the sentiment, praising, This splendid organization feels like Delhi itself, not Kazipet. Participation from every region underscores Kho-Kho's meteoric rise. I extend heartfelt thanks to KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal, Secretary-General Upkar Singh Virk, and Telangana Kho-Kho Association President Janga Raghav Reddy for this triumph.

Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy affirmed, Promoting traditional Indian sports like Kho-Kho is imperative. The state government pledges full support for this championship's resounding success.

Unprecedented Participation Signals Sport's Reach

Teams from 26 states, 6 union territories, 4 institutional units, and 3 associate member federations compete in a league-cum-knockout format, reflecting Kho-Kho's robust nationwide foundation. Pre-quarterfinals and quarterfinals unfold on January 14, followed by semifinals and finals on January 15.

The ceremony featured KKFI Secretary-General Upkar Singh Virk, Treasurer Govind Sharma, Administration and Organization Chairman Dr. M.S. Tyagi, Telangana Kho-Kho Association Secretary N. Krishnamurthy, alongside senior officials, sports administrators, and elected representatives.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar