Latest news with #KhoKho
India Gazette
3 days ago
- General
- India Gazette
KKFI empowers Kho Kho's global growth with intensive training program for coaches, officials
Gurugram (Haryana)[India], June 3 (ANI): In a significant move to empower Kho Kho's global growth and enhance its scientific and technical foundation, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), under the aegis of the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF), is conducting an Advanced Level III-A Training Course for coaches and technical officials from around the world. The course commenced on June 2 at the Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tercentenary (SGT) University, Budhera, and will continue till June 15. This intensive program brings together nearly 20 international coaches and officials representing Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Iran, Australia, England, Korea, and Malaysia, alongside 50 coaches and 65 technical officials from across India. The training sessions for coaches are scheduled from June 2 to June 11, followed by the sessions for technical officials from June 12 to June 15. The Advanced Level III-A Training course has been designed to address both technical excellence and holistic development in the sport. Over two weeks, participants will engage with a wide range of subjects including biomechanics and movement analysis, autogenic training for recovery, introduction of sports science in Kho Kho, awareness about doping in sports, sports psychology, scientific gazettes in sport, and the latest rules and regulations set by IKKF. In some of the major sessions during this course period, participants will explore key components shaping the modern game on Thursday (June 5), such as Sports Science in Kho Kho by Pooja Bhati, Awareness about Doping in Sports by Vikas Tyagi and Anurag and Training of Attackers by renowned coach HV Nataraj. The day will also feature an early morning physical fitness session led by Ashwani Sharma. Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Sudhanshu Mittal, President, Kho Kho Federation of India said, 'This course reflects our commitment to preparing a new generation of coaches and technical officials who are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and international exposure to take Kho Kho to the next level in the global stage. As the sport integrates science and technology in all dimensions--from mat-based play to the Decision Review System--developing human capital is key to sustaining its global growth.' The Advanced Level III-A Training Course for coaches will conclude on June 11 with a practical examination followed by a closing session, reflecting on the two-week training and highlighting key takeaways for coaches before the technical officials' segment begins. Over the past few years, Kho Kho has evolved from a traditional Indian sport into a fast-paced, professionally managed discipline. Adopting advanced playing infrastructure, introducing the 'Wazir' role to enhance dynamism, and integrating sports science and data-driven coaching have elevated the sport's appeal on the international stage. This course serves as a crucial step in aligning coaching and officiating standards with the sport's modern format and global aspirations. By hosting this advanced-level course, KKFI reaffirms its vision of making India the nucleus of global Kho Kho development while fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange. (ANI)
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
When Mamitha Baiju called Suriya her 'favourite' person and had to exit 'Vanangaan'
The makers have officially released pictures from the puja ceremony of 's next venture, tentatively titled ' Suriya 46 ', starring and Mollywood actress in the lead roles. Mamitha has previously expressed her dream of working with Suriya and shared her admiration for him. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Now, after years, her wish has come true, and an old video clip of her saying the same has resurfaced online. Back in 2022, Mamitha and Suriya were part of director Bala's Vanangaan. Suriya was also attached to the project as a producer. However, due to creative differences, he walked away from the film. Mamitha, who had reportedly shot with Suriya for around 40 days, eventually exited the film as well. Though Vanangaan hit theatres in January 2024, the final version featured , Roshni Prakash, and Ridhi in the lead roles. Mamitha spoke about her brief involvement in the shelved version of Vanangaan while promoting her 2024 hit film Premalu . Kho Kho | Song - Venal Pathayil In an interview with Ginger Media in 2022, she said, 'Suriya is my favourite person. I respect him so much because he is such a wonderful person. We have a lot to learn from him, like the way he talks and the way he treats people.' Later, in a conversation with Rednool, she said, 'Someone whom I like very much, even from when I was a child, has been Suriya sir. I also like Ajith sir a lot. I've watched all their films.' Mamitha also admitted that she used to watch many of Suriya's films with her father and brother while growing up. One fan reacted to the recent post, 'Her dreams have come true ❤️❤️ Congratulations @mamitha_baiju 😍😍.' Another commented, 'Finally together!' On the work front, Suriya was last seen in Retro, directed by . He is also expected to collaborate with soon. Mamitha recently made her Tamil debut in 'Rebel', directed by Nikesh RS. She is also gearing up for her roles in 'Dude' and 'Jana Nayagan'.
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Mittal on transforming Kho Kho into a global sport
From a childhood passion for sports to spearheading the global revival of Kho Kho , politician and philanthropist Sudhanshu Mittal has redefined India's traditional game. 'Kho Kho was familiar to every Indian child, yet it was fading away,' says Mittal. 'I chose the challenge of reviving it over joining an already established sport.' Mittal's transformation strategy was twofold—first, internationalising the game by shifting it from mud to mat. 'We designed an indigenous playing mat, tailored to Kho Kho's pace and movement. That was a game-changer,' he explains. Second, he focused on making the sport TV-friendly. This led to the launch of the Ultimate Kho Kho League , with innovations like reducing squad size, shortening innings, and introducing the 'Wazir'—a strategic chaser with bidirectional movement. His extensive public life shaped his leadership approach. 'Voluntary institutions work differently from corporate ones. Inspiring collaboration and alignment is key,' says Mittal, who takes pride in the harmony within the Kho Kho Federation . Advocating for policy changes, Mittal highlights the need to broaden CSR norms and government support for indigenous sports. 'We need a dedicated institutional framework for traditional sports—something that doesn't exist yet,' he asserts. Kho Kho is now played in 55 countries, with plans to reach 90 by year-end. Upcoming events include a Champions Trophy (2025–26), Asian Kho Kho Championship (2026–27), and even a World Cup in 2029. Mittal's vision is clear: Kho Kho in the Commonwealth Games by 2028, the Asian Games by 2030, and the Olympics by 2032. 'Kho Kho is no longer just a game—it's an engine of opportunity,' he says, noting over 3,000 players have secured government jobs and the sport is driving grassroots economies. From dusty playgrounds to international arenas, Kho Kho's journey under Mittal is one of ambition, innovation, and resilience.
Time of India
12-05-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Mysuru to get multidisciplinary sports complex with velodrome and academies
Mysuru: In a major boost to the city's sporting infrastructure, the department of youth empowerment and sports (DYES) submitted a formal proposal to the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (Muda) for the development of a world-class, multi-disciplinary sports complex at over 25.2 acres of Muda-owned land, the complex is designed to accommodate a range of sporting disciplines, including athletics, cycling, Kho Kho, volleyball, wrestling, and basketball. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Key features of the proposed facility include a synthetic athletic track, an international-standard velodrome, dedicated basketball courts, and specialised academies for Kho-Kho, volleyball, and wrestling. This initiative, announced by chief minister Siddaramaiah in the recent state budget, aims to elevate Mysuru's status in the national sports arena and inspire more local youth to consider sports as a viable original plan for an international cricket stadium on the site was cancelled due to the presence of a 2.28-acre waterbody. Instead of abandoning the project, DYES reimagined the space and chose to integrate the waterbody into the new plan. The rejuvenated waterbody will not only enhance the aesthetics of the complex but will also serve practical functions, including supporting ground maintenance and ecological located adjacent to the Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) Regional Centre and along the Outer Ring Road, the new sports complex will also include sports hostel accommodation and practice grounds, making it a comprehensive training and competition long-pending velodrome, originally announced in the 2023–24 state budget but delayed due to land constraints, is a key highlight of the project. With 10 to 15 acres earmarked for the velodrome, the facility will also include pump tracks and dirt tracks to support various cycling disciplines, boosting Mysuru's prominence in competitive to TOI, Bhaskar Nayak, assistant director at DYES, confirmed that the proposal was formally submitted to Muda. "The engineering team is currently conducting a land survey and valuation. Once completed, the land will be transferred to DYES for the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR), which will include cost estimations. The project is in line with the , which has earmarked Rs 2 crore each for establishing wrestling, volleyball, and Kho-Kho academies in Mysuru," he stated."The new complex is expected to ease the load on existing infrastructure such as Chamundi Vihar Stadium, enabling upgrades and facilitating Mysuru's emergence as a key regional centre for sports training and events," he the development of this state-of-the-art facility, Mysuru is poised to become a major hub for national and international sports, providing enhanced opportunities for aspiring athletes and supporting the overall growth of the sporting ecosystem in Karnataka, officials said.
Hans India
11-05-2025
- Sport
- Hans India
Mothers behind the mat: The Silent pillars of kho kho athletes
In a sport defined by speed, agility, and endurance, the real strength for many of India's Kho Kho stars has come from home—from the woman who encouraged them, fought societal norms, and made personal sacrifices to ensure her child could chase dreams on the mat. Nazia from Jammu & Kashmir reflects on the resilience of her mother, saying: 'My mother has been a constant source of support throughout my journey. Despite occasionally facing concerns from some of our relatives about my safety, she has always believed in me and my potential in sports. She stood by me like a pillar of strength, offering unwavering encouragement. Even during times of financial hardship, she never let that become a barrier to my dreams. Her support for my game has never wavered, and for that, I am truly grateful.' Subhashree Sing from Odisha credits her mother's bravery and belief, stating: 'I come from a small town in Odisha, but my mother made the brave decision to send me to Bhubaneswar for my studies. She has always understood my passion and dreams, and supported me wholeheartedly. I am truly grateful to her for believing in me and making sacrifices so I could pursue a better future. Her strength and selflessness have been my biggest inspiration.' Sumon Barman of West Bengal shares a deeply personal note of thanks: 'Despite her busy schedule, my mother has always supported me wholeheartedly. Whatever I need—whether it's love, care, or encouragement—she gives it without hesitation. I am truly thankful to her, because whatever I am today is because of her unwavering support and sacrifices.' Aakash Balyan of Uttar Pradesh adds his voice to the chorus of gratitude: 'My mother has always done everything for me with unconditional love. I often leave home early, but she always makes sure my meals are ready on time and takes care of all my personal needs so I can reach the ground without any stress. Her constant motivation and support have meant the world to me. I will always be deeply thankful to her for everything she does.' This Mother's Day, the Kho Kho Federation of India joins its athletes in saluting these incredible women—the ones who didn't just raise champions, but also became the strength and spirit behind their victories. They provide unwavering support, guidance, and presence through their child's triumphs and tribulations. Mothers indeed play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these young athletes and the sport itself.
