Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has been officially appointed as the brand ambassador for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, scheduled to take place in New Delhi from January 13 to 19, 2025. This landmark event will feature teams from 24 countries and is poised to elevate the global profile of Kho Kho, a traditional Indian sport.
Event Dates & Location
The Kho Kho World Cup will be hosted in New Delhi, India, from January 13 to 19, 2025. The event promises to be a significant milestone in the global promotion of Kho Kho.
Salman Khan’s Role
Salman Khan, renowned for his connection with Indian culture, expressed enthusiasm for his new role.
- Reflecting on his personal bond with Kho Kho, Khan highlighted the sport’s importance in fostering teamwork and agility.
- He emphasized that the World Cup is not just a competition but also a celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage and indomitable spirit.
Tournament Features
- Participation: The tournament will feature 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams, representing a total of 24 countries.
- Demonstration Match: A special match was organized ahead of the event, showcasing star players like Pratik Waiker, Aditya Ganpule, Ramji Kashyap, and Priyanka Ingle.
Importance of the Event
The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 marks a significant step in bringing international attention to Kho Kho.
- The event aims to blend the sport’s traditional roots with modern appeal, captivating audiences worldwide.
- With the involvement of Salman Khan, the tournament is expected to attract a larger audience and gain extensive media coverage.
Support from Key Organizations
- Indian Olympic Association (IOA): The IOA has partnered with the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) to provide comprehensive support for the event.
- KKFI Leadership: KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal expressed gratitude towards Salman Khan for his role in increasing the sport’s visibility.
Equal Opportunity
The event underscores KKFI’s commitment to inclusivity by ensuring equal participation opportunities for both men’s and women’s teams.
Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI)
- KKFI is the national governing body for Kho Kho in India, responsible for organizing national championships and fostering the sport’s development.
- The Federation collaborates with Ultimate Kho Kho (UKK), a league dedicated to promoting Kho Kho at the national level.
Global Impact
The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup aims to:
- Showcase the sport’s unique blend of tradition and athleticism to an international audience.
- Strengthen Kho Kho’s position on the global sports map.
The involvement of Salman Khan as the brand ambassador is expected to amplify the event’s prestige and draw global attention, making it a landmark moment for Indian sports.