Feb 5: The 35th Sub Junior National Kho Kho Championship concluded on a high note in Kurukshetra, with Maharashtra girls and Odisha boys lifting the coveted national titles after impressive performances in their respective finals.
In the girls’ final, Maharashtra displayed tactical superiority and speed to defeat Rajasthan 27–15, securing the championship with a dominant showing. The team’s coordinated defence and swift attacks proved decisive, earning them the top honours in the tournament.
The boys’ final witnessed an intense contest, where Odisha outplayed Kolhapur 31–24 in a high-energy match. Odisha’s disciplined gameplay, agility and strategic substitutions helped them maintain control in crucial moments, leading to a well-deserved victory.
Several young athletes delivered standout performances during the championship, reflecting the growing depth of talent in Indian Kho Kho. Rahi Patil, Gunjan and Aparna Varde were recognised for their exceptional contribution in the girls’ category, while Varad, Gaurav Mane and Satya Ranjan Behara impressed in the boys’ competition with their agility, stamina and match-winning skills.
The championship was organised by the Haryana State Kho Kho Association (HSKKA) under the aegis of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI). The event brought together top sub-junior teams from across the country, offering a competitive platform for young players to showcase their abilities at the national level.
Prizes and awards were announced for the top-performing teams and players, recognising excellence, sportsmanship and dedication throughout the tournament. Officials highlighted that such national championships play a crucial role in nurturing grassroots talent and strengthening India’s traditional sports ecosystem.
The successful organisation of the event in Kurukshetra further reinforced the city’s growing reputation as a hub for sports and youth development. The championship concluded with optimism that many of these young players will go on to represent their states and the nation at higher levels in the future.
