Overview
- Governing body
- KKFI
- Origin
- Ancient India
- Olympic discipline
- No
- Category
- Team
- Total players listed
- …
Kho-Kho is one of India's most-followed disciplines. The KKFI oversees national federation activity, talent identification and Olympic qualification pathways. Major support flows in through TOPS and Khelo India for athletes who clear federation benchmarks.
Kho-Kho is not currently on the Olympic programme, but it sits firmly inside India's broader sporting ecosystem. The discipline receives support through the Khelo India movement, multi-sport events such as the National Games and Asian Games trials wherever the sport is contested, and dedicated league or championship structures run by the federation. Sponsorship, broadcast deals and private academies often fill the gap that direct government funding leaves, and several state governments offer cash awards, government jobs and land grants to medallists at the National Games and recognised world championships.
As a team sport, Kho-Kho in India is built around a club, district and state structure that culminates in national-level inter-state competition. State associations affiliated to the KKFI run age-group leagues from under-14 upwards, with the strongest pools historically coming from states with established grassroots infrastructure. Franchise leagues — where they exist — sit on top of this pyramid and have transformed athlete earnings, broadcast visibility and the professionalisation of coaching and support staff. School and college tournaments under SGFI and AIU remain the primary discovery route for players who do not come through a private academy.
At the grassroots, the route into Kho-Kho typically starts at school under the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), at the inter-university level under the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), or through a private academy registered with the state association. The Khelo India Youth Games and Khelo India University Games are the largest single discovery platforms — athletes who reach the podium at these events become eligible for the Khelo India Talent Development scheme, which funds boarding, coaching, kit, education and a monthly stipend at accredited centres. State sports awards and central government jobs under the sports quota remain a powerful incentive for athletes from smaller towns.
Kho-Kho originated in Ancient India, and in India it has developed a distinct character shaped by the country's geography, demographics and sporting culture. Whether you want to compete, coach, sponsor, write about or simply follow Kho-Kho, the practical starting point is the same: connect with your state association under the KKFI, identify the nearest SAI centre or accredited academy, and track the Khelo India and federation calendars for the events that decide selection at every level. Kho-Kho is played and developed across India under the KKFI, with grassroots programmes, state associations and national-level competition pathways.
History
How kho-kho evolved globally and took root in India.
Kho-Kho traces its modern origins to Ancient India. Codified rules, standard equipment and international competition took shape as the sport spread beyond its birthplace, and KKFI is the body that carried it into organised Indian competition.
In India, kho-kho grew through princely-state patronage, defence-service teams, universities and state associations. Post-independence, the discipline was formalised under KKFI, national championships were instituted, and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) later brought it into the centralised high-performance system with dedicated centres, coaching cadres and sports-science support.
Kho-Kho sits outside the Olympic programme but is firmly part of India's Asian Games, Commonwealth and National Games map, with state governments backing medallists through cash awards, jobs and land grants.
Indian Players
Loading…- Aanya BishtUttarakhandCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Aanya GhoshKeralaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Aarav SahooAssamCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Aarav TomarTelanganaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Aarvi MarandiWest BengalAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Abhinav AhujaPunjabAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Abhinav ParmarArunachal PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Abhinav TuduHimachal PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Aditya ChatterjeeSikkimAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Akshara NairUttar PradeshAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Akshara TrivediUttar PradeshAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Akshay MishraGoaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Amaira AwasthiMaharashtraAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Amaira NaiduKarnatakaCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Ananya SaxenaMadhya PradeshCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Ananya SenTamil NaduAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Anika BoseKeralaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Anika DasKarnatakaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Anika KaurWest BengalAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Anjali MalhotraRajasthanAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Ankit ShahKarnatakaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Atharv ChatterjeeRailwaysDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Atharv VermaLadakhAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Avani DuttaUttar PradeshDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Avani GuptaAssamAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Avani MalhotraMeghalayaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Bhakti JadhavMaharashtraCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Bhakti KaurChhattisgarhCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Bhakti SolankiPunjabAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Bhavesh NaiduUttar PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Bhavna ChakrabortyLadakhAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Bhumi KaurHaryanaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Charvi PantOdishaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Chhavi AwasthiRailwaysAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Chhavi KrishnanMadhya PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Chhavi SahooRajasthanAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Chirag BhatiaTamil NaduCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Damini KumarServicesAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Damini NairManipurAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Darshan ChakrabortyBiharDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Darshan DesaiKarnatakaCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Darshan DuttaDelhiDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Darshan KarChhattisgarhAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Darshan PrasadChandigarhAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Darshana JoshiRailwaysCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Deepak AhujaPunjabAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Deepali PradhanAndaman and Nicobar IslandsDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Deepali ReddyMaharashtraDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Deepali ShindeJammu and KashmirAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Deepika BhallaPunjabCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Devansh ChauhanLadakhDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Devansh MurmuGujaratDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Devansh ShuklaAndhra PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Dhruv DasMadhya PradeshAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Dhruv MitraRajasthanAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Divya PatelSikkimDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Eklavya BeheraSikkimAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Eklavya PathakMadhya PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Eshani MalhotraLadakhAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Eshani YadavMadhya PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Faisal DashDelhiCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Faisal SaxenaMizoramAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Faizan ChopraPuducherryCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Faizan ShindeHimachal PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Faizan TiwariMizoramAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Falguni SrivastavaRailwaysAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Gargi RathodMeghalayaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Gargi SubramanianMeghalayaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Garima PatnaikServicesAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Garima SubramanianMeghalayaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Geetika AgarwalChandigarhCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Harsh JadhavAndaman and Nicobar IslandsAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Hemant ChauhanHimachal PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Hrithik LakraTripuraDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Hrithik OjhaHimachal PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Hrithik PrasadBiharDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Hrithik VermaUttarakhandAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Imran RanaOdishaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Inder KulkarniBiharAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Inder TrivediHimachal PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Ishan NaiduWest BengalAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Jatin PandeyMizoramAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Jatin RajputMeghalayaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Jyoti MarandiHaryanaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Jyoti SethiKeralaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Karan SaxenaGoaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Kartik PathakJharkhandDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Kavya BansalPuducherryDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Kavya MukherjeeMaharashtraAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Keshav ReddyTelanganaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Keshav ShettyArunachal PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Komal BhallaMizoramAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Komal RajputChandigarhDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Krish ChopraServicesDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Kritika GuptaGujaratAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Lipika RanaOdishaDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Lokesh ChandraBiharAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Madhuri GoswamiMeghalayaDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Madhuri VermaGujaratDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Mahima KrishnanArunachal PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Manav DubeRajasthanDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Manisha LakraMaharashtraDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Manisha PatelAssamDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Meera SrivastavaOdishaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Mihir BishtGujaratAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Mihir PatelKeralaDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Mira SrivastavaNagalandAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Myra RajputChandigarhAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Myra SuriMaharashtraAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Naina PathakTamil NaduDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Nasreen ShaikhMaharashtra
India women's Kho-Kho captain; led India to inaugural Kho Kho World Cup gold.
- Neha KaurBiharCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Nidhi ShahUttarakhandDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Nidhi SrivastavaServicesDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Nidhi TopnoChhattisgarhDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Niharika KrishnanMadhya PradeshAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Nikhil ChopraGoaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Nikhil TomarServicesDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Nirmal MalhotraChhattisgarhAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Nirmal TopnoChandigarhCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Nisha SahooChhattisgarhCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Nisha SenPunjabCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Ojas MishraMizoramDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Ojas ShettyBiharDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Ojaswini GoswamiWest BengalAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Omkar JadhavMizoramDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Omkar PatnaikSikkimAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Pari ParmarUttarakhandAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Parth MenonPunjabAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Parth MukherjeeHimachal PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Pavan BhatiaPuducherryAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Pavan KhannaJammu and KashmirAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Pavan RajputWest BengalAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Pavan RathodAndaman and Nicobar IslandsAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Payal NegiAndhra PradeshDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Payal SuriChhattisgarhAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Pooja KhannaHaryanaDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Pooja RathodUttar PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Pranav NaiduOdishaCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Prateek LakraUttarakhandAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Prateek ReddyTelanganaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Pratik WaikarMaharashtra
India men's Kho-Kho captain; inaugural World Cup winning captain.
- Priya ChandraGoaCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Priya ChatterjeeRajasthanDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Priya SenRailwaysAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Priya TomarKarnatakaDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Radhika BhallaUttar PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Radhika PillaiBiharAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Rahul VermaUttarakhandAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Rakesh KarNagalandDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Reyansh RoyArunachal PradeshCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Ritvik SahaChandigarhAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Ritvik ShahTamil NaduCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Rohan NegiKarnatakaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Rohan RanaUttarakhandDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Ruchi DesaiWest BengalAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Saanvi KrishnanSikkimDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Sahil KaurWest BengalCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Sameer ShuklaTripuraDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Sanya BhosaleKarnatakaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Sara DeshpandeManipurAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Sara MalhotraBiharAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Shalini ReddyMadhya PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Shalini ShahJharkhandCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Siddharth ChandraManipurAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Siddharth KulkarniPuducherryAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Siddharth MishraKarnatakaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Sneha KhannaUttarakhandDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Sneha PillaiJharkhandDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Tanmay JoshiTamil NaduDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Tanmay SahaJammu and KashmirDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Tanvi DashMeghalayaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Tanvi RoyGujaratAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Tara RanaTelanganaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Trisha ShuklaChhattisgarhAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Trisha SuriJharkhandAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Tushar LakraMeghalayaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Tushar PrasadWest BengalAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Tushar RoyServicesDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Tushar TiwariMizoramDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Umesh TomarMadhya PradeshDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Urvi ChakrabortyUttar PradeshAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Vaishali ReddyGoaDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Vanya TomarMeghalayaAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Varsha ChopraOdishaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Varun ShuklaWest BengalAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Veer KrishnanJharkhandDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Veer LakraWest BengalDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Veer SahaPuducherryDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
- Vidya BeheraMaharashtraAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Vidya ChakrabortyRajasthanDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Vihaan KaurOdishaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Vihaan SuriMaharashtraCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Vihaan TomarGoaAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Vikas ChatterjeeManipurDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Vikas KarTripuraAttacker
Lead chaser timing the kho perfectly and finishing tackles inside the central lane.
- Vinay PatnaikSikkimCaptain
Floor leader directing kho calls, substitutions and tactical pole strategy.
- Vishal GoswamiOdishaAll-Rounder
Two-way kho-kho athlete contributing in both attack and defence every turn.
- Yamini VarmaDelhiAttacker
Quick-turning attacker with sharp kho-giving and pole-dive finishes against runners.
- Zaid NagAndaman and Nicobar IslandsDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Zaid RawatPuducherryDefender
Elusive defender chaining ring play and dodges to survive the full nine-minute turn.
- Zara KumarNagalandDefender
Balanced runner using sudden direction changes to break the attacker's rhythm.
Rules
Two opposing sides contest a fixed-duration match on a marked field or court, with officials enforcing possession, out-of-play, foul and scoring rules published by the international federation. Teams field a set number of players plus substitutes, age and gender categories are strictly separated, and match officials use video review at the top level. India follows the international rulebook adopted by the national federation, with domestic tweaks for age-group and school competition durations.
Authoritative rulebook: KKFI. Age-group and school-level variations are published by SGFI and the state associations each season.
Positions
Key roles, events or positions inside a kho-kho squad or competition.
- Attackers / forwardsPrimary scorers who operate closest to the opposition goal or scoring zone.
- Midfielders / all-roundersLink play between defence and attack; usually the highest work-rate positions.
- DefendersDeny the opposition space and possession in the defensive third.
- Goalkeeper / last lineSpecialist stopper with distinct kit and rules; the final line of defence.
- Captain & vice-captainOn-field leadership, decision-making and communication with match officials.
Equipment
Standard kit and infrastructure required to train and compete in kho-kho at a federation-recognised event.
- Match ball or puck to the federation's specification
- Team playing kit, warm-up gear and studded/turf footwear
- Personal protective equipment where the sport requires it (shin guards, mouthguard, helmet, pads)
- Training equipment: cones, agility ladders, GPS vests, video analysis rig
- Field or court markings, goals/nets and match-officials' equipment
Governing body
KKFI is the recognised national body for Kho-Kho in India. It sets the domestic calendar, selection norms, coaching curriculum and anti-doping compliance, and is affiliated to the international federation for kho-kho. State associations under KKFI run age-group competition and feed the national talent pipeline.
- Origin
- Ancient India
- Olympic
- No
- Category
- Team
Major Indian Events
Domestic championships, Khelo India events, National Games and franchise leagues that shape the kho-kho calendar in India.
- KKFI Senior National Championship
The primary domestic kho-kho title and the main selection trial for the senior India team.
- KKFI Junior & Sub-Junior National Championship
Age-group nationals that feed the Khelo India Talent Development scheme and the senior camp.
- Khelo India Youth Games & University Games — Kho-Kho
India's largest multi-sport scouting platform; medallists become eligible for KIA stipends and boarding at accredited centres.
- National Games of India — Kho-Kho
Quadrennial multi-sport meet contested by state teams; state governments give cash awards, jobs and land grants to medallists.
- Ultimate Kho Kho
World's first franchise league for the indigenous sport of kho kho.
International Events
Continental and world-level competitions where India competes in kho-kho.
- Asian Games & Asian Championships
Continental championship pathway sanctioned by KKFI; medallists receive central and state cash awards.
- Commonwealth Games / Championships
Commonwealth-level competition where India regularly fields medal contenders in kho-kho.
- World Championships
The senior world title event of the international federation — the peak of the kho-kho calendar outside the Olympic year.
Leagues
Franchise and professional leagues catalogued for kho-kho. Full season data, champions and schedule filters are available in the sidebar.
- Domestic · Since 2022Ultimate Kho Kho
World's first franchise league for the indigenous sport of kho kho.
International Players
Globally recognised kho-kho athletes to know outside India.
- Lionel Messi (Argentina)8-time Ballon d'Or; 2022 World Cup winner.
- Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)5-time Ballon d'Or; Euro 2016 champion.
- Kylian Mbappé (France)2018 World Cup winner; multiple Ligue 1 top scorer.
- Erling Haaland (Norway)Manchester City forward; Premier League Golden Boot.
- Manuel Neuer (Germany)2014 World Cup-winning goalkeeper; Bayern Munich legend.
Records
Where to find India's official kho-kho record book.
- Olympic medalsN/A
Kho-Kho is not on the Olympic programme, so India records this discipline through Asian Games, Commonwealth, World and Continental championships instead.
- Asian Games medalsTracked
India's Asian Games results in kho-kho are compiled by the Indian Olympic Association and the KKFI.
- Commonwealth medalsTracked
Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Championship medals in kho-kho are maintained by the KKFI.
- World Championship medalsTracked
Senior, junior and youth World Championship medal records are held by the international federation for kho-kho and mirrored by KKFI.
- National record holdersFederation register
KKFI publishes the current senior, junior and sub-junior national records and updates them after every ratified event.
Career Options
Ways to build a career in kho-kho — on the field, on the sidelines and behind the scenes.
- Professional player in a domestic franchise league, state team or overseas club
- Coach at grassroots, state, national or franchise level (federation-certified)
- Match official — referee, umpire, video review, technical delegate
- Sports science support — strength & conditioning, physiotherapy, nutrition, video analyst
- Sports management, broadcast, journalism, commentary and creator careers
- Government-quota jobs in Railways, defence, police, PSUs and state services for state and national representatives
Related academies
0 listedNo kho-kho academies are catalogued in the directory yet. Browse the full academy list or list your academy to appear here.
Government Schemes
…Central and state schemes that fund training, stipends and awards for kho-kho athletes and academies.
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All government schemes →FAQs
Common questions about kho-kho in India.
Who governs Kho-Kho in India?▾
KKFI is the recognised national federation for Kho-Kho in India. State associations under KKFI run age-group and state-level competition and feed the national talent pipeline.
Is Kho-Kho an Olympic sport?▾
Kho-Kho is not currently on the Olympic programme, but India competes at Asian Games, Commonwealth Games (where recognised), World Championships and other continental events sanctioned by KKFI.
How do I start playing Kho-Kho in India?▾
Join a school team under SGFI, a college team under AIU, or a private academy affiliated to your state association. From there, age-group state championships and Khelo India events are the standard route into the national pipeline.
What government schemes support Kho-Kho athletes?▾
The core schemes are Khelo India (talent development stipends, scholarships and boarding at accredited centres), TOPS (funding for elite athletes preparing for the Olympics, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games), and state-government cash awards, jobs and land grants for medallists. Federation-specific schemes may also apply.
Where can I train for Kho-Kho?▾
Sports Authority of India (SAI) national centres of excellence, Khelo India accredited academies, state sports institutes and private academies registered with the state association are the standard training venues. The Academies section on this page lists options.
How are Indian Kho-Kho athletes selected for international events?▾
KKFI runs selection trials — typically the senior national championship, a dedicated trial event, or ranking-based selection — and publishes the selection policy each season. Objective criteria (times, distances, ranking points, weight-class results) dominate at the elite level.
Kho-Kho in every state & UT
Dedicated pages for Kho-Kho in each Indian state and Union Territory — academies, schemes, athletes and how to start.
- Kho-Kho in Andhra Pradesh
- Kho-Kho in Arunachal Pradesh
- Kho-Kho in Assam
- Kho-Kho in Bihar
- Kho-Kho in Chhattisgarh
- Kho-Kho in Goa
- Kho-Kho in Gujarat
- Kho-Kho in Haryana
- Kho-Kho in Himachal Pradesh
- Kho-Kho in Jharkhand
- Kho-Kho in Karnataka
- Kho-Kho in Kerala
- Kho-Kho in Madhya Pradesh
- Kho-Kho in Maharashtra
- Kho-Kho in Manipur
- Kho-Kho in Meghalaya
- Kho-Kho in Mizoram
- Kho-Kho in Nagaland
- Kho-Kho in Odisha
- Kho-Kho in Punjab
- Kho-Kho in Rajasthan
- Kho-Kho in Sikkim
- Kho-Kho in Tamil Nadu
- Kho-Kho in Telangana
- Kho-Kho in Tripura
- Kho-Kho in Uttar Pradesh
- Kho-Kho in Uttarakhand
- Kho-Kho in West Bengal
- Kho-Kho in Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Kho-Kho in Chandigarh
- Kho-Kho in Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
- Kho-Kho in Delhi
- Kho-Kho in Jammu & Kashmir
- Kho-Kho in Ladakh
- Kho-Kho in Lakshadweep
- Kho-Kho in Puducherry