Junior National Kho-Kho Championship Begins in Gunjur, Bengaluru
Dr. Shrikrishna Sharma
New Delhi. The 44th Junior National Kho-Kho Championship commenced with great enthusiasm at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Gunjur, Bengaluru. Approximately 1000 players are participating in this Junior National Kho-Kho Championship. According to the organizers, the matches in this championship will be held on a league-cum-knockout basis. For its successful conduct, 180 supporting staff and 100 technical officials have been deployed to ensure the smooth running of the championship. On the first day,
approximately 40 matches were played in both the girls’ and boys’ categories. The semi-finals and finals will be played on January 3rd and 4th respectively. It has been announced that the 58th Senior National Kho Kho Championship (Men and Women) 2025-26 will be held from January 11-15, 2026 in Kazipet, Telangana. While the 35th Sub-Junior National Kho Kho Championship (Boys and Girls) 2025-26 is scheduled to be held from January 31, 2026 to February 4, 2026 in Kurukshetra, Haryana.
Former Minister H. Nagesh was present as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of this championship. Officials and executive committee members of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) and the Karnataka State Kho Kho Association (KSKKA) were also present.
Sudhanshu Mittal, President, KKFI said, “The teams from various states and union territories add diversity to this championship. It provides a unique opportunity for young athletes to interact with each other and learn from one another.” Dr. M.S. Tyagi, Chairman, Organization and Administration, KKFI said, “It is wonderful to see the young generation of athletes embracing this sport with such enthusiasm and energy. The Junior National provides a crucial platform for these athletes to showcase their talent and advance in their careers.” Lokeshwar, President of the Karnataka State Kho-Kho Association, said, “These young talents have a bright future, and we are providing the players with the best in terms of training, facilities, and guidance.”
“The Junior Nationals is a platform for identifying and encouraging young talent. Youngsters are keen to pursue a career in kho-kho as it offers opportunities and recognition similar to other modern sports,” said Upkar Singh Virk, General Secretary, Kho-Kho Federation of India (KKFI). (Sports Editor)
