Indian Women triumph in first-ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025; PM Modi cheers historic win
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Indian women’s Kho Kho team for their historic win in the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. The Women in Blue dominated Nepal in the final, securing a stunning 78-40 victory at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Sunday, January 19.
PM Modi took to X to share his praise, stating, “Congratulations to the Indian women’s team on winning the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup! This historic victory is a result of their unparalleled skill, determination, and teamwork. This triumph has brought more spotlight to one of India’s oldest traditional sports, inspiring countless young athletes across the nation. May this achievement also pave the way for more youngsters to pursue this sport in the future.”
The game saw a dominant start by India. In Turn 1, the Indian attackers took control. Nepal’s women were tagged out seven times, allowing India to rack up 14 points early. Skipper Priyanka Ingle led her team with multiple touch points, helping India score 34 points while Nepal failed to land a Dream Run.
Despite some strong efforts from Nepal, including a tag by Manmati Dhami on Vaishnavi Pawar and a successful elimination of Priyanka Ingle by Samjhana B, India maintained their lead. Chaithra B guided India’s batch in Turn 2 into a Dream Run, but Nepal’s Dipa BK countered with an all-out move, slowing India’s momentum. By halftime, Nepal trailed by 11 points, having only scored 24.
India’s dominance continued in Turn 3. Nepal struggled to maintain a rhythm as the Women in Blue kept the pressure on. Dipa BK remained a key player for Nepal, but her efforts proved futile as the match progressed. In Turn 4, Chaithra B led India in an extended Dream Run that lasted 5 minutes and 14 seconds, pushing India’s score to an uncatchable 78 points and clinching the victory.
India’s Anshu Kumari was named the Best Attacker of the match, while Nepal’s Manmati Dhami received the Best Defender title. Chaithra B earned the Best Player of the match award, further solidifying India’s dominance in the game.
Impact and Future of Kho Kho
This victory marks a turning point for Kho Kho in India. PM Modi emphasized how the win shines a spotlight on this traditional sport, inspiring future generations. With such a stunning performance, India’s women’s Kho Kho team has set a new benchmark and captured the attention of sports fans across the nation.
