Haryana Chief Minister Celebrates Kho-Kho as India's Cultural Heritage at National Championship
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday inaugurated the 35th Sub-Junior National Kho-Kho Championship (Boys and Girls) at Keshav Park in Kurukshetra, where he delivered an inspiring address that positioned the traditional Indian sport as much more than just physical activity.
Kho-Kho: A Reflection of India's Soil and Spirit
In his keynote speech as chief guest, CM Saini described Kho-Kho as not merely a sport but a reflection of the fragrance of India's soil. He emphasized that the game teaches a fundamental lesson: a lack of resources can never hinder true talent. The traditional Indian game requires neither expensive equipment nor large playgrounds, yet demands agility, strategy, teamwork, discipline and sharp decision-making from its participants.
The Chief Minister formally declared the championship open and announced a significant grant of Rs 21 lakh for the Kho-Kho Association. He also took time to personally interact with the participating players, showing his commitment to grassroots sports development.
Historical Significance and Cultural Connection
Expressing pride in Kurukshetra's historical and cultural significance, CM Saini noted that this is the sacred land where Lord Krishna delivered the eternal message of duty, action and discipline to Arjuna. He emphasized that from this very land, traditional games like Kho-Kho are spreading values of discipline, dedication, team spirit and national unity across the country.
The Chief Minister termed the championship not just a sporting event, but a celebration of India's sports culture, youth power and bright future. He highlighted that a competition of this level was last held in Haryana in 2012, making this event particularly significant after nearly 12-13 years.
Haryana's Sports Vision and National Integration
Highlighting Haryana's progressive sports policy, CM Saini explained that the state has developed a clear and forward-looking vision aimed at connecting every child with sports. This includes developing playgrounds in every village and providing opportunities to every youth with passion and potential. To achieve this ambitious goal, sports competitions are organized throughout the year across the state.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, he said the Prime Minister has envisioned preparing India for the 2036 Olympic Games and establishing the country as a global sporting powerhouse. Initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India are direct results of this strategic thinking.
National Participation and Growing Enthusiasm
The championship has attracted impressive participation with 34 teams from all Indian states and other sports units competing in the five-day event that will conclude on February 4. Approximately 1,080 boys and girls from across the country—from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Gujarat to the Northeast—are participating, accompanied by 210 dedicated coaches.
CM Saini noted that despite differences in language, attire and culture, all participants are united by the spirit of sportsmanship, which breaks barriers and binds the nation together. On the first day alone, 40 matches were played, demonstrating the competitive spirit and enthusiasm for the traditional sport.
Sport's Evolution and International Recognition
Kho-Kho Federation of India General Secretary Upkar Singh Virk shared significant developments about the sport's evolution and recognition. He noted that while Kho-Kho was traditionally played on soil, it is now being played on mats as well, marking a modernization of the game.
More importantly, Virk announced that Kho-Kho has been included in the Commonwealth Games to be held in Gujarat from March 9 to March 14, representing a major milestone for the traditional Indian sport on the international stage.
Distinguished Presence and Opening Ceremony
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries including State Cabinet Minister Krishan Lal Panwar and Rajya Sabha MP Subhash Barala, who congratulated the organizers for the successful conduct of the national event. Haryana Sports Kho-Kho Association President Jawahar Singh Yadav welcomed the guests and noted that the opening match was played between Chandigarh and Vidarbha.
A ceremonial march-past by the players added grandeur to the inauguration ceremony, symbolizing the unity and discipline that the sport represents. CM Saini proudly noted that Haryana, often called the nursery of sports, continues to produce athletes who bring glory to the nation at international platforms.
The event represents a significant moment for traditional Indian sports, combining cultural heritage with modern sporting infrastructure and international recognition, all while fostering national unity through athletic competition.
