Historic inaugural Kho Kho World Cup takes over New Delhi with unforgettable colorful Opening Ceremony

India defeated Nepal 42-37 in the opening match of men’s section

Rakesh Thapliyal

New Delhi:The inaugural edition of Kho Kho World Cup kicked off on Monday evening with a vibrant Opening Ceremony at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi.

India defeated Nepal 42-37 in the opening match of men’s section.Thousands of fans packed into the Indira Gandhi Stadium as Vice President Shri. Jagdeep Dhankhar, Union Sports Minister of India Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Smt. Raksha Khadse, IOA President Smt. PT Usha, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Lieutenant Governor of J&K Shri Manoj Sinha, Rajya Sabha Member Shri Rajeev Shukla and International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF) and Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) President Shri. Sudhanshu Mittal welcomed players from 23 countries to compete in the men’s and women’s competitions.

A sand art projection – paying ode to Mother Earth began the show, after which a ceremonial parade of the Indian flag filled the present audience with pride. The Kho Kho Federation of India unveiled the World Cup trophy for both Men’s and Women’s tournament with the lifting of the cube – inciting loud cheers throughout into the stadium.

After a stunning dance performance celebrating India, and highlighting the vibrant and colourful culture of the country, the participating nations took a parade around the stadium and waved towards the crowd. The dignitaries took the stage to officially open the tournament.

Speaking on the night, KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal said, “I thank all the dignitaries for being present here and showcasing their support. It was our dream to take Kho Kho to the international stage, and with this tournament our dreams are coming true. To see all the visiting countries enjoy and play the sport with such enthusiasm and vigour ensures a promising a future for the sport. We wish all the teams the best for the tournament.”

IOA President PT Usha further added, “Kho Kho is not just a game it is a testament to India’s rich heritage and legacy. Let us all uphold the spirit of fair play and uphold the essence of competition. Kho Kho World Cup renews our passion for our indigenous game. I thank all the dignitaries and all the fans and their presence and their support to this wonderful endeavour. Let us celebrate this tournament with enthusiasm and may this World Cup be remembered for many years to come.”

Hon’ble Union Minister of Sports Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya said, “I am proud to have India hosting this wonderful tournament. The Kho Kho, which originated from India is now being played across 50 countries. KKFI President Shri Sudhansu Mittal Ji has done wonders to promote the sport. I hope to see Kho Kho being played at the Asian Games and the Olympics soon. I congratulate all the players from the 23 nations and extend my best wishes to everyone involved.”

Hon’ble Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar, along with Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse lit the torch to officially open the World Cup and gave an inspiring speech to kick off the first match of the tournament between India and Nepal. “This has been a spectacular start to the tournament. It feels like the entire world is celebrating Kho Kho. Today’s momentous occasion will go down in our golden history of sports. Shri Sudhanshu Mittal has even opened up my eyes with such a wonderful program. I am confident that in the coming future, our own indigenous sports will reach the international level. I have an old relation with Kho Kho. The sport is an art, it requires agility, speed, cleverness. I wish all the participating nations the very best for the tournament.”