In the boys\u2019 semifinals, Maharashtra edged out Kolhapur 33-31, while Karnataka dominated Madhya Bharat 33-20. In the girls\u2019 semifinals, Maharashtra triumphed over Punjab 28-14, and Odisha beat Kolhapur 29-27.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Sneha Lamkane (Maharashtra) won the 'Janaki Award' as the best player in the girls\u2019 category, while B. Vijay (Karnataka) received the 'Veer Abhimanyu Award' as the best player in the boys\u2019 category.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Among the finalist teams, Diksha Katekar (Maharashtra) was named best attacker and Archana Pradhan (Odisha) best defender in the girls\u2019 category. Raj Jadhav (Maharashtra) was named best attacker, and Prajjwal Y. (Karnataka) best defender in the boys\u2019 category.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 44th Junior National Kho Kho Championship, held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Gunjur, Bengaluru, from December 31 to January 4, showcased emerging talent and reinforced Kho Kho\u2019s growing grassroots stature.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Sudhanshu Mittal, President of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), said, \u201cMy heartiest congratulations to all participants, including the winning teams and runners-up. Junior Nationals is a vital platform for identifying, nurturing, and promoting young talent. It aligns with the aspirations of junior athletes nationwide and offers valuable learning for everyone involved.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dr. M.S. Tyagi, Chairman, Organisation & Administration, KKFI, emphasised organisational excellence and athlete development: \u201cChampionships like the Junior Nationals are essential for competitive exposure and instilling discipline, teamwork, and professionalism in young players.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Lokeshwara, President of the Karnataka State Kho Kho Association, reflected on the event: \u201cIt has been a privilege to host the Junior National Championship successfully. Our focus was on smooth organisation, fair competition, and a positive experience for all teams and officials.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Upkar Singh Virk, General Secretary, KKFI, highlighted talent identification: \u201cThe pan-India participation reflects Kho Kho\u2019s strong grassroots presence. These young athletes have a bright future, with more youth pursuing careers in the sport.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Lokeshwara, President of the Karnataka State Kho Kho Association, reflected on the event: \u201cIt has been a privilege to host the Junior National Championship successfully. Our focus was on smooth organisation, fair competition, and a positive experience for all teams and officials.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 35th Sub-Junior National Kho Kho Championship (Boys & Girls) 2025-26 is scheduled for January 31 to February 4 in Kurukshetra, Haryana.<\/p>\r\n\r\n