Kho Kho is a traditional Indian sport that traces its roots back to ancient times. It’s a popular game, especially in schools and rural areas, where it promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and agility. The game is simple yet exhilarating, requiring minimal equipment and a large playing area.
While the exact origins are somewhat obscure, it’s believed that Kho Kho evolved from a rural game played in Maharashtra centuries ago. Initially known as “Run Chase,” it gained popularity and evolved into the structured game we know today as Kho Kho.
The modern form of Kho Kho was formalized in the mid 19th century, with rules standardized to create a competitive sport. The Kho Kho Federation of India was established in 1955 to promote and regulate the sport nationally. While the first kho-kho tournaments were organized in 1914, it was in 1959 when the first national championship was held in Vijayawada.
Since then, Kho Kho has grown in popularity, becoming a staple in schools, colleges, and community events across India.
The game made significant strides towards international recognition when it was showcased as a demonstration sport at the Berlin 1936 Olympic Games and later at the South Asian Federation (SAF) Games held in Calcutta (Kolkata) in 1987. The SAF Games played a pivotal role in the formation of the Asian Kho-kho Federation, marking a significant milestone for the sport’s regional development. This federation played a crucial role in spreading the popularity of kho-kho beyond India’s borders, particularly in its neighbouring countries.
Read More: Kho Kho Rules – Tips and Tricks on How to Play
How Many Players are There in Kho Kho
In Kho Kho, two teams compete against each other, each consisting of 12 players, with 9 players on the field and 3 extras as substitutes. The playing field is rectangular, divided into two equal parts with wooden poles at each end. The game begins with a toss to decide which team will chase and which will defend.
The defending team sits in a row with their knees touching the ground, facing opposite directions, while the chasers try to tag them. The defending team aims to avoid being tagged for as long as possible within a specified time limit. Players can switch positions during the game, adding a strategic element to the gameplay.
The chasers must and quick, weaving through the defenders to tag them before they can react. Once a defender is tagged, they must leave the field, and the tagged player from the other team takes their place. The game continues in this manner until all defenders are tagged or the time runs out.
One of the most appealing aspects of Kho Kho is its accessibility. It can be played on various surfaces, from grassy fields to sandy beaches, making it a versatile and inclusive sport.
Kho kho Tournaments in India – Ultimate kho kho
The Ultimate Kho Kho (UKK) league, a franchise-based Kho Kho competition, debuted in 2022 through a collaboration between Dabur and the Kho Kho Federation of India. Garnering immense attention, the inaugural season drew in a staggering 64 million viewers, with 41 million viewers from India alone.
This remarkable viewership made Ultimate Kho Kho the third-most watched non-cricket sports event in India, following the Pro Kabaddi League and the Indian Super League.
Featuring six teams namely Chennai Quick Guns, Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Khiladis, Odisha Juggernauts, Rajasthan Warriors, and Telugu Yoddhas, UKK promises thrilling matchups. The game unfolds in two innings, each comprising two turns lasting seven minutes each. A brief interval of three minutes follows the conclusion of the first inning, while two-minute breaks occur after the first and third turns.
Know about the Players in Other Games
| Games | Number of Players |
| Cricket | 11 |
| Football | 11 |
| Basketball | 5 |
| Polo | 4 |
| Hockey | 11 |
| Baseball | 9 |
| Rugby Football | 15 |
| Volleyball | 6 |
| Ice Hockey | 6 |
| Kabaddi | 7 |
