Around 70 teams from 26 states and 6 union territories will participate in the 44th Junior National Kho Kho Championship 2025-26 from December 31, 2025, to January 4, 2026, at Gunjur, Bengaluru. With 35 boys and 35 girls teams competing, all eyes will be on defending champions Maharashtra, who swept both categories at last year’s championship.
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League-Cum-Knockout Format Determines Champions
Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Puducherry, Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Delhi represent the participating union territories. Beyond states, teams from recognized Kho Kho Associations like Kolhapur, Vidarbha, and Madhya Bharat will battle for titles in the league-cum-knockout format championship.
| Championship Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | 44th Junior National Kho Kho Championship |
| Dates | December 31, 2025 – January 4, 2026 |
| Location | Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium, Gunjur, Bengaluru |
| Teams | ~70 (35 boys, 35 girls) |
| States | 26 participating |
| Union Territories | 6 participating |
| Groups | 8 groups each (boys and girls) |
| Defending Champions | Maharashtra (both categories) |
| Officials | 25+ referees, coaches, technical officials |
| Transport | 10 buses deployed |
| Accommodation | Within 3-4 km of stadium |
Pre-quarter finals in both categories will be held mornings on January 3, with quarter finals in afternoons. January 4 features semi-finals in the morning followed by finals. Both boys’ and girls’ teams have been divided into 8 groups each, ensuring competitive balance throughout the tournament.
Platform for Talent Identification and Recognition
Sri Lokeshwara, President of Karnataka State Kho Kho Association, confirmed that 25 officials including technical officials, coaches, and association members have been deployed for preparations and smooth championship conduct. Accommodation arrangements have been made within 3-4 km of the stadium with 10 buses handling player conveyance.
According to Kho Kho Federation of India, Sudhanshu Mittal, KKFI President, described the event as a festival where young talents nationwide compete while showcasing skills. Talent identification and recognition play important roles in promoting the sport as KKFI aims for Kho Kho’s inclusion in Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympics.
Upkar Singh Virk, KKFI General Secretary, confirmed all preparations are in place with focus on athlete and infrastructure development. Dr. M.S. Tyagi, Chairman of Administration & Organisation, expressed hope watching young athletes compete, emphasizing KKFI’s role in guiding and supporting them.
Upcoming Kho Kho Calendar Packed with Events
For more on traditional sports growth, India will host the first Commonwealth Kho Kho Championship from March 9-14, 2026. The 58th Senior National Kho Kho Championship (Men & Women) 2025-26 runs January 11-15, 2026, in Kazipet, Telangana, while the 35th Sub-Junior National Championship takes place January 31-February 4, 2026, in Kurukshetra, Haryana.
This packed calendar demonstrates KKFI’s commitment to developing Kho Kho at all levels—from sub-junior to senior—while preparing for international recognition and Olympic aspirations.
FAQs
Where and when is the 44th Junior National Kho Kho Championship being held?
At Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium, Gunjur, Bengaluru, from December 31, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
Who are the defending champions in the Junior National Kho Kho Championship?
Maharashtra won both boys’ and girls’ categories at the 43rd championship in Aligarh, UP.
