The historic Amar Hind Mandal Ground at Dadar came alive with fast-paced action as the inter-school Kho-Kho Tournament delivered non-stop thrill, sharp tackles, quick dodges and edge-of-the-seat moments. Organised in memory of late Umesh Shenoy, the tournament saw enthusiastic participation from 27 schools from Mumbai, suburban areas and Thane. Each match reflected the rich tradition, speed and tactical depth of Kho-Kho, turning every contest into a true test of skill, stamina and determination.
Grand Inauguration . A Boost of Motivation
The tournament was formally inaugurated by Mr. Amit Chikhalkar, former State and University-level player of Amar Hind Mandal and currently associated with Axis Bank. His inspiring words motivated the young players to perform with confidence and sportsmanship. A total of 12 girls’ teams and 15 boys’ teams competed fiercely for top honours.
Girls’ Final . Dominance of R. F. Naik School
In the girls’ final, R. F. Naik School, Koparkhairane defeated Gnyanvikas Vidyalaya, Thane by 9–5 points, winning with one inning in hand and a margin of 4 points. Shruti Chormare delivered an outstanding performance with 4 min defence and 3 points, Vaishnavi Jadhav impressed with 4 min defence and 3 points, while Praniti Jagdale contributed 2.30 min defence and 1 point in a continuous and effective display. From Gnyanvikas, Samruddhi Kadam (1.30 min defence, 1 point), Pranjal Pate (1.30 min defence, 1 point) and Shravani More (1.30 min defence, 2 points) fought hard, but R. F. Naik’s aggressive play proved decisive.
Boys’ Final . Gnyanvikas’ Kingmaker Performance
In the boys’ final, Gnyanvikas Vidyalaya, Thane registered a memorable victory over Mahatma Gandhi Vidyamandir, Bandra by 10–7 points, winning with one inning in hand and a 3-point margin. Sahil Shinde led the charge with 2.20 min defence and 2 points, supported by Vinayak Bhange (3.50 min defence, 1 point), Sairaj Baikar (2.10 min defence, 2 points) and Sarthak Wangde (3.50 min defence, 1 point). For Mahatma Gandhi Vidyamandir, Tanmay Pujare (1 min defence, 2 points), Balkrishna Harale (1.40 and 1.10 min defence) and Sandesh Gomani (1.30 min defence, 1 point) put up a commendable fight.
Prize Distribution . Honouring the Champions
At the prize distribution ceremony, national Kho-Kho player Mrs. Nilima Parkar of Amar Hind Mandal graced the occasion as chief guest and felicitated the winning teams. The event was attended by Arun Deshpande (Trustee), Seema Kolhatkar (Secretary), Vijay Rane (Executive President), Rajendra Karnik (Vice President), Prafulla Patil (Treasurer), Utkarsha Shenoy–Talekar (Joint Secretary), Amit Kimbhune (Joint Secretary), along with Nilesh Sawant and Rohan Chavan, among other dignitaries.
Individual Excellence . Tournament Award Winners
Girls’ Category — Best All-Rounder. Shruti Chormare (R. F. Naik), Best Defender. Vaishnavi Jadhav (R. F. Naik), Best Attacker. Shravani More (Gnyanvikas).
Boys’ Category — Best All-Rounder. Sahil Shinde (Gnyanvikas), Best Defender. Vinayak Bhange (Gnyanvikas), Best Attacker. Tanmay Pujare (Mahatma Gandhi).
The tournament at Amar Hind Mandal Ground stood as a true celebration of Kho-Kho, highlighting the passion, discipline and fighting spirit of young players. It not only strengthened Dadar’s sporting culture but also left behind an inspiring legacy for the next generation of Kho-Kho athletes.