Kho Kho is a traditional Indian sport that involves two teams, each consisting of 12 players. The game is played on a rectangular field with poles at the ends. One team, the "chasers," tries to tag the layers of the other team, the "defenders," while avoiding being tagged themselves. The defenders, in turn, attempt to avoid being tagged and also have the objective of completing a full round around the poles.
The game is known for its speed, agility, and strategic maneuvers. It requires quick decision-making and teamwork. Kho Kho is popular in India and is played at both recreational and competitive levels.
Kho Kho has ancient roots in Indian history and is believed to have originated in Maharashtra. The game is mentioned in ancient Indian texts like the Mahabharata, where it is referred to as "Run Chase." Over the years, Kho Kho evolved from a recreational pastime to a formalized sport with defined rules.
The formalization of Kho Kho as a sport can be attributed to the efforts of Hanuman Vyayam Prasarak Mandal, a physical education organization in Maharashtra. In 1914, the organization organized the first rules of the game, leading to the establishment of structured competitions.
Kho Kho gained popularity across India, and the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) was formed in 1959 to oversee and promote the sport. The game has since become a recognized and organized sport, played not only in India but also in other countries. Kho Kho has also been included in various national and international sporting events.