The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup in New Delhi ended on a historic note as India secured both the men’s and women’s titles in thrilling fashion. In a masterful display of speed, strategy, and skill, the Indian women’s kho kho team claimed the 2025 title at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Sunday night, defeating Nepal 78-40. Meanwhile, the men’s team followed suit with a 54-36 victory over Nepal in their final.
The Indian women dominated from the outset, with skipper Priyanka Ingle leading by example. In Turn 1, the Women in Blue racked up 34 points, effectively neutralizing the Nepalese team. Despite a brief comeback attempt by Nepal in Turn 2, led by Dipa BK, India held firm. In Turn 4, Chaithra B orchestrated a Dream Run, extending India’s lead to 78 points and sealing the historic victory.
India’s path to the title included commanding wins over South Korea, Iran, and Malaysia in the group stages, followed by triumphs against Bangladesh in the quarter-finals and South Africa in the semi-finals. This victory not only crowned India as the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup champions but also spotlighted the sport’s growing global appeal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the women’s team, emphasizing how this triumph brought renewed attention to one of India’s oldest traditional sports. “Their unparalleled skill, determination, and teamwork have inspired countless young athletes across the nation,” he tweeted.
The men’s final saw a similarly dominant performance. Led by captain Pratik Waikar and standout player Ramji Kashyap, India started strong with a 26-0 lead in Turn 1, thanks to exceptional skydive maneuvers. Though Nepal mounted a spirited comeback, India’s defense, bolstered by Waikar and Sachin Bhargo, proved too strong. The 54-36 win marked the culmination of India’s remarkable journey, which included victories over Brazil, Peru, and Bhutan in the group stages, and knockout wins over Bangladesh and South Africa.
Dignitaries such as former Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, Supreme Court Judge Pankaj Mithal, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju were present to witness the historic event, further underscoring Kho Kho’s rising prominence. This landmark victory, paired with the growing interest in the sport, sets the stage for Kho Kho’s future as a global phenomenon, with aspirations of becoming an Olympic sport.
Following the men’s triumph, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team with a tweet: “Today’s a great day for Indian Kho Kho. Incredibly proud of the Indian Men’s Kho Kho team for winning the Kho Kho World Cup title. Their grit and dedication is commendable. This win will contribute to further popularising Kho Kho among the youth.”
India’s double triumph in the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup has not only established them as champions but also brought new recognition to this indigenous game on the international stage.
(With input from agencies)