The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup in New Delhi ended on a high note with both the Indian men’s and women’s teams securing the top spot in the tournament.
While the event itself was thrilling for the players and spectators alike, it was the Indian hospitality and cultural charm that left an indelible mark on the international stars who participated.
The tournament commenced with a grand cultural festival that set the tone for the competition, welcoming 23 nations from across six continents. The opening ceremony, a vibrant display of India’s rich traditions, featured captivating musical and dance performances.
It was an unforgettable start to the competition, leaving both players and audiences in awe of the country’s cultural magnificence.
The foreign players were quick to share their admiration for the hospitality they received during their stay. Amir Ghiasi from Iran, speaking about his first experience in India, highlighted the exceptional treatment they received.
“It was our first time in India and we had a great time. The Indian hospitality was very good. From the moment we arrived, everything was well taken care of. The hotel accommodations and food were tailored to our needs, so we had no issues at all. It was also our first time experiencing Indian culture, and we truly enjoyed the cultural celebrations. It was amazing,” Ghiasi said.
Amandeep Kaur, a member of the New Zealand women’s team and a native of India, also praised the tournament's organisation and the hospitality provided.
She admitted that the competition exceeded their expectations in terms of its intensity. “We thoroughly enjoyed it. The main thing was that we didn’t think the competition would be that tough. Now we’re excited to prepare for the next level,” she said.
The successful execution of the event was a result of meticulous planning by the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) and the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF).
Key figures such as Sudhanshu Mittal, president of KKFI, MS Tyagi, KKFI General Secretary, and Rohit Haldania, IKKF General Secretary, took charge to ensure all the necessary arrangements were made for the visiting teams, keeping in mind their native requirements.
This careful attention to detail contributed significantly to the positive feedback from the international players.
“The hospitality here in India has been absolutely amazing. The atmosphere was loved by everyone, and players from all teams appreciated the care and support provided. If there were any issues, the support was immediate, whether it was medical assistance or specific dietary requirements. India has proven to be the best host for this tournament,” Amandeep Kaur added.
Apart from the competition, players had the opportunity to experience India’s cultural wealth. Several teams visited the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra and sampled traditional Indian street food. The exposure to Indian culture was an enriching experience for many of the participants.
“The hospitality, food, and cultural experiences have been wonderful. The dance performances, the music, and the vibrant attire were all captivating. There is so much to see, and it’s hard to focus on just one thing because everything is so intriguing. The World Cup experience has been excellent,” said Silvana Patricia, head coach of the Peru men’s team.
For Laura Doering, the head coach of the Brazil men’s team, India’s culture was an eye-opener.
“Everything is so different from our own culture. I find myself paying attention to every little detail, and I’m so glad I came here. The people are incredibly friendly, and the hospitality has been unmatched. I’m also looking forward to taking some dance moves back home,” she shared, expressing her appreciation for the cultural immersion she received.
The Kho Kho World Cup proved to be more than just a sports competition. It showcased the unifying power of sport and the warmth of Indian hospitality.
Follow us
