ITV

Tag: Tenzing Niyogi

  • Union Budget 2024: Record Rs 3442 cr boosts India’s sports sector

    Union Budget 2024: Record Rs 3442 cr boosts India’s sports sector

    Mumbai: During her speech, the finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated, “The country is proud of our youth scaling new heights in sports. The highest-ever medal tally in Asian Games and Asian Para Games in 2023 reflects a high confidence level. Chess prodigy and our Number-One ranked player Praggnanandhaa put up a stiff fight against the reigning World Champion Magnus Carlsson in 2023. Today, India has over 80 chess grandmasters compared to little over 20 in 2010.”

    Sports budget allocation 2024-25

    •    Khelo India: Rs 1045 Cr
    •    SAI: Rs 822 Cr
    •    National Sports Development Fund: Rs 18 Cr

    Here are the post-budget reactions of India’s sporting business stakeholders

    Punit Balan Group chairman & managing director Punit Balan shared his thoughts on the budget allocation stating, “The government’s proactive stance towards sports through this increased allocation of funds will provide the impetus for Indian athletes to shine brightly in international competitions, contributing to the continued growth and success of the country’s success on the global stage. With the Paris Olympics looming on the horizon, we are confident that our youth will make it the best-ever campaign for India.”

    Reflecting on the government’s sustained commitment to the growth of sports in India, Ultimate Kho Kho CEO and League Commissioner Tenzing Niyogi highlighted, “Last year, we witnessed a Rs 300 crore increase in sports allocations, which contributed to India’s success in the Asian and Para-Asian Games. The government’s continued commitment is evident in the latest budget, with a total allocation of Rs 3442 crores, which reflects a significant increase from the previous year’s budget. The increased allocations not only boost the morale of our athletes but also serve as a testament to the government’s vision for developing and nurturing sporting talent. As India gears up for the upcoming Paris Olympics, this heightened financial support will pave the way for a promising era for sports in the country.”

    One of the key beneficiaries of this augmented budget is Khelo India, which has received a significant increase from Rs 880 crores to Rs 900 crores.

    “The substantial allocation in this year’s budget not just for the sports sector but also for Khelo India will play a pivotal role with regard to grassroots development. This support for our athletes across all sporting disciplines will facilitate more participation and lead to more medals at the Olympics and other international tournaments,” commented U Mumba CEO Suhail Chandhok.

    Concurring with him, Yuva Kabaddi Series CEO Vikas Gautam emphasised, “The commendable allocation in this year’s budget marks a significant stride towards transforming India into a sporting powerhouse. By prioritising grassroots infrastructure via increasing the Khelo India budget, we are not just investing in facilities but nurturing the latent talent that resides in every corner of our nation. This budget reflects a visionary approach, recognizing that the true potential of our athletes lies in the foundation we build for them today. It’s a resounding commitment to creating a robust sports ecosystem and with our combined efforts I hope this will fuel the aspirations of our youth and propel India to new heights on the global stage.”

    Gamepoint co-founder & CEO Aditya Reddy believes that the impact of sports extends beyond the field, offering massive economic opportunities.

    “PM Narendra Modi during the inauguration of the Khelo India Youth Games in Chennai stated that the government has resolved to make the country an important centre of the global sports ecosystem. He also highlighted that sports was not just limited to the field, but also presents a huge economic opportunity, he said the country’s sports-related industry will be worth at least Rs 1 lakh crore in a few years. Given the positive approach of the government towards sports, we hope that post the Lok Sabha elections, the new government will increase the budget allocation and announce new measures for the growth of Indian sports,” noted Aditya Reddy.

    Alongside the increased budget allocations, FM Nirmala Sitharaman praised the achievements of the country’s youth in sports and highlighted the confidence level reflected in India’s highest-ever medal tally at last year’s Asian and Para Asian Games during her speech.

    In addition, she proudly stated that India now boasts over 80 Chess Grandmasters which is a significant increase from just over 20 in 2010 and sparked optimism among the country’s sporting business stakeholders.

    Punit Balan, whose PBG-owned team Balan Alaskan Knights competed in the inaugural Global Chess League (GCL) last year said, “Our FM, Nirmala Sitharaman, acknowledging the remarkable achievements of our youth in sports, particularly in chess, reflects the bright future of the sport in our nation. We take pride in Raunak Sadhwani, the prodigy of Balan Alaskan Knights, being one of India’s 80 Grandmasters.”

    The positive sentiments were echoed by Suhail Chandhok who expressed, “As mentioned by FM Nirmala Sitharaman, Indian athletes have been making their presence felt on the International stage and that is a significant indication of our country becoming a sporting powerhouse. Our upGrad Mumba Masters’ grandmasters Vidit Gujrathi, Harika Dronavalli, and Koneru Humpy securing Medals at last year’s Asian Games 2022 have brought immense pride to Indian chess, with Vidit also going on to secure a place in the prestigious Candidates tournament.”

    With the continued support from the government, the sports sector in India is poised for further development and a bright future for athletes across various disciplines.

  • Ultimate Kho Kho became first sports league in India to secure private equity investment – Tenzing Niyogi

    Ultimate Kho Kho became first sports league in India to secure private equity investment – Tenzing Niyogi

    Mumbai: Day by day sports culture is reduced by many factors. The role of physical games replaced by eSports, playstation, and virtual games. However physical sports are still valuable. It is not just for discipline but engagement of human psychology to deliver mental and physical results. Other than cricket, few traditional sports are still underrated. Kho Kho is the game of ‘ Challengers’. It can be a better game for enthusiasts but training and molding Kho Kho enthusiasts is difficult. To improve awareness about Kho Kho as an International sport program few of the people are working hard to keep Kho Kho alive. Not only alive but also making Kho Kho stronger.

    In the latest interaction, Indiantelevision.com exclusively spoke to Tenzing Niyogi CEO and league commissioner of Ultimate Kho Kho. Sports and business management are indigenous sides. Tenzing Niyogi has spoken about the dynamics of the sports industry.

    Sports management and project management are also paramount for keeping sports alive and building a sports economy. Revenue is part of the secondary process of building the sports ecosystem in India along with giving a platform for sports players.

    To speak about the second season of Ultimate Kho Kho Niyogi shared his input on  ongoing events in the sports industry and his perspectives on Kho Kho sports.

    With more than 16 years of experience across Sports strategy planning, broadcasting, sponsorship, and development of leagues/sports IPs and events, Ultimate Kho Kho Tenzing Niyogi is initiating a new era for homegrown and indigenous sports in India.

    Here are excerpts –

    On Kho Kho worldwide recognition and awareness –

    Kho Kho holds a special place in the memories of many, being a sport that most people have played during their school days. Even those unfamiliar with the game can easily grasp its dynamics when watching it. Remarkably, Kho Kho is currently played in 25 countries worldwide, attesting to its wide popularity. In the Indian context, the sport enjoys widespread popularity across states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha with a particularly strong following in Maharashtra. The key lies in bringing Kho Kho into the spotlight, allowing people to reconnect with the sport and fostering a closer connection between enthusiasts and this traditional game.

    The purpose of Ultimate Kho Kho is to market and package India’s indigenous sport of Kho Kho into a professional structure. The initiative aims to bring India’s very own home-grown sport to the forefront and make it the most sought-after sports league in India. The league strives to elevate the age-old Indian sport to international standards and allow young talents to showcase their skills in front of a pan-India and global audience.  While maintaining the strategic core of traditional Kho Kho, Ultimate Kho Kho, is a reimagined version which brings dynamic elements that demand players to adapt swiftly to evolving scenarios, ensuring a thrilling and captivating experience for both participants and spectators alike.

    On the future of Kho Kho in India –

    We hope to make Kho Kho the next big thing, just like cricket, hockey or football. To achieve this, we are on a mission to strategically rebrand the sport, igniting heightened interest and enthusiasm among the viewers.

    Elevating the status of the sport is imperative and that can be done especially by emphasizing the need to celebrate and glamorize the sport. Building sports heroes within the realm of this sport is pivotal, as these icons can genuinely inspire a new wave of players to embrace it. Equally crucial is the meticulous training of these athletes, ensuring their physical and strategic prowess is honed to perfection. The preparation is geared towards enabling them to exhibit their absolute best when avid viewers tune in from the comfort of their television screens and are hooked to the screen, afraid not to miss out on any action.

    Embracing change, we have introduced modifications that infuse dynamism into the game, rendering it fast-paced and more enthralling for the audience. Securing sponsorships and attracting investors is undeniably a critical factor in taking any league ahead and we have 10 to 12 corporates who have shown keen interest to invest which is a great win for us, setting great prospects in favour of the game. Ultimate Kho Kho also became the first sports league in India to secure private equity investment from the UK-based BNP Group aiming to elevate the trajectory of Kho-Kho both within India and on a global scale.

    This sport unquestionably possesses the potential to transform into a successful commercial IP, provided it receives the appropriate mix of strategic promotion, financial support, and audience-focused approach.

    On grassroot sports development –

    This initiative, blending tradition with innovation, promises to reignite the passion for Kho Kho and captivate both players and sports enthusiasts. The inaugural season accumulated a considerable viewership of 164 million across various media platforms which was huge.

    I got interested in Kho Kho during my visit to Ichalkaranji in Maharashtra which introduced me to the rural and indigenous version of the game. The idea of creating the Ultimate Kho Kho league came to me when I imagined the sport’s potential on TV, especially in an indoor arena with close-up camera shots. My aim is to inspire the youth and give the opportunity to support the traditional sport Kho Kho. The league ensures viewers are able to feel the intensity and thrill of the sport and are constantly amused by the live action of these players.

    To enrich the spectator experience, Ultimate Kho Kho employs modern technologies for enhanced broadcasting. It is the first league to bring Spider Cam in an indoor league in India. Ultimate Kho Kho is also the first that brought the Sheffield plate to be used in India. It spins, and we use it especially for pole dives, that’s what you see in the super slow motion – a close-up of the pole and of skydives. Providing viewers cool coverage, smart commentary, and interesting analysis all help to grab their attention. The introduction of professional leagues, featuring regional franchises, intensifies competition and fosters a sense of loyalty among fans and helps to uplift the sport.

    On current infrastructure for Kho Kho players –

    Despite the diverse and rich sports culture in India, certain disciplines like Kho Kho, Kabaddi, Wrestling, Gymnastics, and others have not received the same widespread attention as cricket. Acknowledging the need for improvement, India has witnessed significant changes and reforms in sports development. The country is actively working towards becoming one of the top sporting nations, evident from the positive developments in its sports landscape.

    As a testament to this commitment, Odisha stands out as a leader in fostering sports excellence, with an investment exceeding Rs 2500 crores. Notably, the state boasts the largest Sports Science Centre at the Kalinga Stadium, where athletes, including those from the Odisha Juggernaut, can benefit from advanced recovery sessions.

    The dedication of the Odisha Government to sports development is further exemplified by their initiative to host Ultimate Kho Kho. We extend our gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik for inviting us to showcase and celebrate the passion for sports in a state that is actively working towards uplifting both sports and its people.

    On second season of ultimate Kho Kho –

    Ultimate Kho Kho is promoted by Amit Burman, and is in collaboration with Kho Kho Federation of India. The primary goal is to enhance the presence of the sport by establishing India’s first professional Kho Kho League. The inaugural season received an enthusiastic response, with a substantial viewership of 164 million across diverse media platforms and an impressive 225 million video views on various social media channels.

    Notably, Ultimate Kho Kho has swiftly ascended to a prominent position among the top three non-cricketing leagues in India, underscoring its growing significance in the sporting landscape. A remarkable aspect of its success is the inclusive appeal, with 41 per cent of the viewership comprising a female audience. Considering the recent inception of the league, these achievements signify a noteworthy milestone. Having captivated the audience’s attention, the focus is towards maintaining and building upon this momentum, ensuring a sustained engagement with Kho Kho enthusiasts.

    On brand campaign for promoting Ultimate Kho Kho-

    The primary goal is to cultivate broad appeal for the game, aiming to capture the essence of its unique features such as pole diving, skydive, power play, and the inherent speed and agility demanded by the sport. Our tagline, “India Maar Chalaang,” reflects the superhero-like airborne dives of the players. By establishing a robust foundation of enthusiasm and support, we envision evolving the game into a widely recognized sporting entity.

    Our widespread involvement on social media highlights the global anticipation for Ultimate Kho Kho. It demonstrates the sport’s appeal transcending borders, creating a loyal and dedicated fan base. The fact that we have top Indian Corporates and Sports investors backing the League as franchise teams like Chennai Quick Guns owned by KLO Sports, Gujarat Giants by Adani Sportsline, Mumbai Khiladis by Punit Balan Group, Odisha Juggernauts supported by Government of Odisha, Rajasthan Warriors by Capri Global Group and Telugu Yoddhas by GMR Sports underscores the immense potential of the league. Their involvement not only brings financial backing but also lends a sense of legitimacy to the sport, attracting attention and investment from diverse quarters.

    Brand campaigns are in the thought process but currently our focus is to build a successful second edition of Ultimate Kho Kho.

    On future prediction for Kho Kho in next 10 years –

    Kho Kho stands out as a sport rich in strategy, speed, and agility—a perfect blend of elements that make any sport enjoyable. Spectators find themselves deeply engrossed in the game, feeling the pulse and intensity of the players’ actions, making it evident that the sport holds tremendous growth potential. The idea that a Kho Kho league would be conceptualized and televised nationally was once unimaginable, yet it has become a reality. The fact that Kho Kho, once confined to local fields and regional tournaments, now graces the national television screens is a testament to its growing popularity and acceptance. The sport has transcended its traditional boundaries, reached a wider audience and brought the exhilarating gameplay to the masses.

    Over the next decade, we anticipate witnessing a cohort of highly refined players elevating our traditional sport, the earthy game of Kho Kho, to a global stature. We are just beginning and we are sure one day Ultimate Kho Kho will outlive all of us.  

    On nurturing sports culture and increasing Kho Kho accessibility –

    Ultimate Kho Kho league holds the potential to revolutionize the accessibility and popularity of the traditional sport by implementing a multifaceted approach.

    The burgeoning fan culture surrounding the league is a testament to its growing popularity. More and more youngsters are actively participating in the sport, indicating a positive shift in its demographic appeal. Notably, 33 players in the Ultimate Kho Kho fall within the age group of 16 to 18, suggesting a strong engagement from the youth.

    To further elevate the level of competition, there is an emphasis on more advanced training for players. This commitment to enhancing player skills and capabilities reflects a dedication to the overall growth and development of the sport. By combining regular fixtures, media exposure, youth engagement, and advanced player training, Ultimate Kho Kho aspires to bring about a revolutionary change in how traditional sports are perceived and embraced.

    On personal ambitions in developing the sports ecosystem –

    My personal aspiration is to establish Ultimate Kho Kho as the premier sports league property, showcasing and advancing the indigenous sport to unprecedented heights. A significant component of this vision involves the strategic inclusion of the women’s rendition of Ultimate Kho Kho, with the aim of expanding its influence to a broader audience. Introducing women’s Ultimate Kho Kho represents a substantial milestone, symbolizing our commitment to inclusivity and making significant strides in popularizing this traditional sport on a more extensive scale.

  • Will Union Budget boost catapult India to Olympic glory in Paris 2024 and beyond?

    Will Union Budget boost catapult India to Olympic glory in Paris 2024 and beyond?

    Mumbai: With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, the spotlight is blazing on India’s sports sector as we eagerly await the Union Budget 2024. In 2023, the industry witnessed a historic budget boost, soaring by over Rs 300 Crores to reach Rs 3397.32 Cr – a testament to the government’s commitment.

    Khelo India emerged as the frontrunner with a whopping allocation of Rs 1045 Crores, playing a game-changing role. Now, with the global stage beckoning in Paris and future Olympic bids, the nation’s sports enthusiasts are on the edge of their seats, anticipating how the upcoming budget will script India’s sports narrative for the world.

    Here are the quotes from the various industry experts on pre-Union Budget allocation for the sports sector

    Punit Balan Group chairman & managing director Punit Balan expressed his optimism, stating, “Last year’s significant boost in the sports budget showcased the government’s commitment to supporting athletic talent. Considering the Paris Olympics 2024 this year, I hope to see a continued emphasis on encouraging and building future stars. The combination of grassroots initiatives like Khelo India and the professional leagues is essential for nurturing talent and ensuring a sustainable ecosystem for Indian sports.”

    Ultimate Kho Kho CEO and league commissioner Tenzing Niyogi emphasised the need for strategic allocations, noting, “Aligning with the nation’s vision to host the 2036 Olympics under the leadership of our prime minister Shri Narendra Modi, we expect a strategic allocation for non-cricketing sports for infrastructure and talent development across diverse sporting disciplines. Furthermore, the allocation of funds from NSF is also of utmost importance as it will serve as a catalyst for nurturing grassroots programs and identifying as well as developing raw talent. An increase in the National Skill Development Fund is also imperative. This is not only in line with making India a multisport-playing nation but also with the creation of more opportunities through the PPP model to engage and entice additional corporate participation in the Sports Movement.”

    As the sporting landscape in India evolves, U Mumba CEO Suhail Chandhok emphasised the importance of channelling resources into the development of indigenous sports leagues, the identification of talent, and the nurturing of grassroots initiatives.

    “With the rapid development of emerging homegrown sports leagues, we anticipate an allocation of funds to elevate their prominence in the country. We also hope for a strategic focus on talent identification and grassroots development which to me are crucial pillars for creating a vibrant sports ecosystem. Investing in these areas will not only promote but also contribute to the sustainable development of diverse sporting disciplines,” he said.

    Addressing the crucial aspect of international-level coaching, facilities, and sports sciences, Yuva Kabaddi Series CEO Vikas K Gautam commented, “The allocation of funds towards the training of coaches is crucial, given the current lack of infrastructure and the absence of internationally standardized coaching facilities. It is imperative to recognize that only well-trained coaches can cultivate athletes to compete at the international level. Emphasis on holistic development programs, focusing on talent identification and nurturing, nutrition, and sports science, to create a well-rounded ecosystem for aspiring athletes.”

    Gamepoint co-founder & CEO Aditya Reddy brought attention to the fiscal aspects of the sports sector, emphasizing that reducing GST could play a pivotal role in its transformation by remarking, “To transform the sports sector in India, it is imperative to encourage and incentivise private sports organisations. This can be made possible by reducing the GST on sports services from 18 per cent to 12 per cent, incentivising the establishment of sports goods manufacturing in India through a PLI scheme for sports equipment, and facilitating access to government, railways, and PSU sports facilities for the general public. If necessary, involving private organizations in managing these facilities under a PPP model can enhance both management and maintenance efficiency.”

  • Ultimate Kho Kho ropes in IndianOil as Powered By Sponsor for Season 2

    Ultimate Kho Kho ropes in IndianOil as Powered By Sponsor for Season 2

    Mumbai: Ultimate Kho Kho, India’s first-ever professional Kho Kho league, has onboarded IndianOil, the country’s leading diversified, integrated energy major as the Powered By Sponsor for its ongoing Season 2. Aligning with Ultimate Kho Kho’s vision of bringing a modern twist to the traditional sport, this partnership solidifies the league’s commitment to shaping the future of Kho Kho in India.

    Having recently secured Series A funding from UK-based BNP Group after successfully raising its valuation, Ultimate Kho Kho became the first sports league in India to secure private equity investment to grow the trajectory of Kho-Kho in India and globally.

    Their partnership with IndianOil is set to unfold through an extensive marketing campaign, encompassing digital and on-ground activations. This collaborative effort will showcase player engagements, social media promotions, and fan-centric initiatives, all geared toward amplifying the league’s reach and influence throughout the nation.

    Reflecting on the strategic association, Ultimate Kho Kho CEO & league commissioner Tenzing Niyogi commented, “We are thrilled to welcome IndianOil as our Powered By Sponsor to elevate the stature of Kho Kho in India. Ultimate Kho Kho was conceived with the vision of not only reviving the rich heritage of Kho Kho but to propel it into a new era of dynamism, and entertainment. Our commitment to making Ultimate Kho Kho larger, bolder, and the ultimate source of entertainment for Bharat aligns perfectly with IndianOil’s dedication to leaving a lasting legacy on the Indian sporting landscape.  We are confident that this partnership will act as a catalyst for the growth of Kho Kho in India.”

    With a presence in almost all the streams of oil, gas, petrochemicals, and alternative energy sources in the country, IndianOil stands as the nation’s highest-ranked Energy-PSU in the Fortune 500 of 2023.

    As part of their association with Ultimate Kho Kho, IndianOil will secure the naming rights for the post-match award, recognizing the ‘Attacker of the Match.’ Additionally, IndianOil will also have the naming rights to the league’s exciting powerplay segment, which was dominated by Chennai Quick Guns’ stalwart all-rounder Ramji Kashyap who accumulated a total of 24 skydive points this season.

    According to a YouGov Report, the first season of Ultimate Kho Kho reached a massive audience of 164 million across various media touchpoints, emerging among the top 3 non-cricket leagues in India.

    Promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, the ongoing season 2 of Ultimate Kho Kho will witness high-octane action between the top four teams – Chennai Quick Guns, Odisha Juggernauts, Gujarat Giants and Telugu Yoddhas during its semi-finals which are scheduled to be played on 11 January 2024. 

  • Indian sports ecosystem thrives in 2023: A year in review

    Indian sports ecosystem thrives in 2023: A year in review

    Mumbai: In 2023, India witnessed a remarkable period filled with record-breaking feats and notable breakthroughs across various sporting domains. It has undoubtedly been a monumental one for the Indian sports ecosystem through significant achievements including:

    In the Union Budget 2023: The sports sector has received its highest-ever budget allocation in history. With an over 300 crore jump, the sports sector has received Rs 3397.32 Cr allocation in the new FY 2023-24 Union Budget. Khelo India received a whopping 1045 Cr funding.

    Asian Games Glory: Setting a new benchmark with a record-breaking haul of 107 medals, the nation’s athletic prowess took centre stage, contributing significantly to this remarkable achievement. Notably, the standout performance in athletics marked phenomenal growth, accounting for approximately 20 per cent of the total medals—a testament to the country’s escalating dominance on the sporting stage compared to previous editions.

    Following are the quotes from personalities on how things went for the Indian sports ecosystem in 2023, achievements and milestones by their company this year and what they are aiming for in 2024:

    Punit Balan Group chairman & MD Punit Balan

    The past year has been a monumental journey for the Indian sporting landscape, especially for non-cricketing sports, and we take immense pride in the significant strides made by the Punit Balan Group in the sporting industry. Our strategic investments in over nine leagues, both nationally and internationally, have contributed toward creating a thriving and sustainable ecosystem for Olympic, indigenous and non-Olympic sports in the country.

    The success of Mumbai Khiladis, the Ultimate Kho Kho team, serves as a powerful testament to the growing appeal of non-cricketing leagues among brands as well as the audience. This season, we achieved a remarkable milestone by securing massive sponsorships that only vindicate the market dynamics as well as also highlight the confidence that sponsors place in our vision for the growth of sports in India.

    Taking our influence to the global stage, PBG had acquired a team, PBG Eagles in the World Tennis League played in Abu Dhabi and what is even more heartening is winning the World Tennis League Season Two title. This strategic move was a big step toward establishing our footprint across the global sporting market, having the world’s best players, including World No. 3 Daniil Medvedev.

    At PBG, our commitment is not limited to mere team ownership in mainline sports. We are devoted to empowering athletes and propelling them toward their Olympic dreams. A case in point is our Handball League team, which also became the season one champion. With the Paris Olympics in mind in 2024, our focus is to increase our support for more athletes, offering them the necessary resources and backing to excel internationally.

    A shining example of this commitment is Indian Tennis Star Rutuja Bhosale, a PBG-supported athlete who clinched a gold medal in mixed doubles tennis at the Asian Games this year. Her triumph brought glory to our nation and fueled her aspirations for an Olympic berth, for which she is currently working hard.

    In 2024, our focus will remain on creating a lasting impact in the sports industry, supporting athletes, and continuing to build sustainable sporting business models for non-cricketing sports, inspiring more people to invest in sports and building a strong stakeholder ecosystem.

    Ultimate Kho Kho CEO and league commissioner Tenzing Niyogi

    The year 2023 was distinguished by historic milestones and remarkable achievements for indigenous sports, with Ultimate Kho Kho spearheading the charge. In a groundbreaking initiative, Ultimate Kho Kho has achieved a significant milestone this year as it secured Series A funding from the UK-based BNP Group and became the first sports league in India to secure private equity investment and was a testament to our commitment to propelling the trajectory of Kho-Kho, both within India and on the global stage.

    In our continued pursuit of making Ultimate Kho Kho larger, bolder, and the ultimate source of entertainment for Bharat, we strategically selected Odisha as the host for the highly anticipated Season 2. This decision was fueled by the ambition of elevating the profile of Kho Kho across the nation, and Odisha, being the sports infrastructure capital of India, provided the ideal platform for our vision. Beyond the promise of thrilling Kho Kho action, Season 2 marked the introduction of the NextGen. Thirty-three exceptionally talented players, aged between 16 and 18, were drafted, reflecting UKK’s dedication to identifying and nurturing emerging talent.

    Another significant accomplishment was the nomination of Nasreen Shaikh, the Indian women’s Kho Kho captain, for the prestigious Arjuna Award. This recognition is a substantial boost to women’s Kho Kho and sets the stage for the much-anticipated women’s Ultimate Kho Kho league in the country, which is currently in the works. Looking towards 2024, we aim to build an even more robust structure of Ultimate Kho Kho, driven for the players (both men’s & women’s) and inducting new team owners to develop the Kho Kho universe.

    U Mumba CEO Suhail Chandhok

    The sports ecosystem in the country has grown by leaps and bounds in 2023, transitioning from a nation of sports spectators towards becoming a truly dedicated sporting nation. This is evident in our remarkable performance at the Asian Games and the Asian Para Games, where we secured 107 and 111 medals, respectively. We are taking significant steps away from just Cricket too and to a diverse range of sports, reflecting our dedication to fostering a comprehensive sporting culture.

    Personally, through the strides made in Kabaddi through the Yuva Kabaddi series, we have witnessed a substantial boost at the grassroots level and its positive impact extending to the Pro Kabaddi League. Our investment in young talent is yielding results and we are confident that we are on the right track in terms of empowering the youth through sport.

    From the U Mumba perspective, we eagerly anticipate building on our early successes in the Pro Kabaddi League and aim to secure a spot in the playoffs this season. Through the Yuva Kabaddi series, we reached over 1000 Kabaddi players in 2023, and our goal is to surpass that number in the upcoming year. We aim to contribute more players to the Pro Kabaddi League and extend our impact to women’s Kabaddi across various states, establishing ourselves as a Pan-India sports product.

    The year 2023 has been a significant and positive chapter for sports in India, and we are looking forward to carrying this momentum into the future.

    Gamepoint co-founder & CEO Aditya Reddy

    In 2023, we experienced the first full year without any effects of Covid. The Indian sports ecosystem bounced back strongly achieving significant milestones in major international sports events. For instance, in the Asian Games, India surpassed a three-figure mark for the first time in the medal tally, securing 107 medals. Our remarkable journey in the Cricket World Cup included reaching the finals with ten consecutive wins. As common people returned to playing sports, there was a renewed interest. The government also played an active role by increasing India’s sports budget for FY 2023-24 by 11 per cent with a major chunk allocated to Khelo India to actively promote sports culture in India. Additionally, numerous sports startups emerged, while existing ones expanded operations nationwide.

    In 2023, Gamepoint trained 4000 students, enabled more than 1 lakh people to play sports and conducted 100 plus corporate sport events. Significant milestones for the company include partnering with Decathlon to promote sports and the launch of a new sport, Pickleball, at Gamepoint. On the financial side, an important achievement was to become EBITDA positive which is rare for sports companies in India.

    In 2024, we are looking forward to making an even bigger impact on the participative sports market and expanding Gamepoint from eight centres in one city to 16 centres in three cities. Also, the target in 2024 will be to increase our revenue share by 50 per cent.

  • Odisha to host Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 from December 24

    Odisha to host Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 from December 24

    Mumbai: Backed with a successful, exciting and entertaining inaugural season that reached 164 million households, Ultimate Kho Kho (UKK) is all geared up for its grand second edition, scheduled to kickstart on 24 December 2023, and final on 13 January 2024 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha.

    Inspired by Hon’ble Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s vision of ‘sports for youth, youth for future’, the Odisha government has not only hosted some of the major global sports events in the state, but it has also developed world-class multi-sport infrastructure and sporting experiences for sports enthusiasts from the state.

    “We are extremely excited to host the 2nd edition of the Ultimate Kho Kho in Odisha. This is an exciting opportunity for all of us. Kho-Kho is a sport that is not only played but widely followed as well in Odisha and hosting the second edition here will be a great opportunity for the people of the state to not only experience the spectacle live but also get inspired and pursue the game. We are fully committed to making the season a grand success,” commented minister of state, electronics & IT, sports & youth services, government of Odisha Tusharkanti Behera.

    UKK, promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, is dedicated to reinventing and promoting the indigenous sport in a more dynamic and engaging manner.

    “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Odisha Government and the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik for their support for the Season 2. The resounding success of the inaugural edition has attracted significant interest from brands and helped us secure new partners. Our focus remains on selecting partners who share our long-term vision. Season 2 aims to build new-age superstars of the future especially with the presence of younger talent on the field. Anticipate more intensified rivalries, thrilling action, more speed and innovations that will redefine the sports viewing experience, making it more immersive TV viewing experience,” commented Ultimate Kho Kho CEO and league commissioner Tenzing Niyogi.

    FinNest (A BNP Group Company), a private equity investment firm has recently invested in the Ultimate Kho Kho to multiply the indigenous growth story. BNP Group founder and chairman Dr. Biswanath Patnaik said: “BNP Group is thrilled to be part of this movement, reshaping homegrown sports into a contemporary spectacle and empowering indigenous aspiring youth to shine. Our mission is to take this movement forward, showcasing India’s best-kept sports to the world, promoting Indigenous sport and nurturing talent for the global stage. The Ultimate Kho Kho is part of our growing sports Investment profile, and we look forward to universal synergies.”

    UKK has revolutionised ‘desh ke mitti ka khel’ (the game of the country’s soil) and the inaugural edition of this indigenous sport’s league became a huge success, emerging as India’s third-largest non-cricket league in terms of TV audience reach.

    The success of the first season is evident in its impressive audience reach of 164 million. The league garnered a total viewership of 41 million in India and 64 million globally across TV and OTT platforms during the 34 matches held over three weeks. Additionally, Season 1 also recorded 60 million interactions and 225 million video views across platforms, surpassing any other non-cricket league. A standout feature of UKK Season 1 was the introduction of the spider cam, marking it the first indoor league in India to deploy this advanced technology in capturing one of the fastest sports.

    The Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 will feature India’s top 145 players, including 33 young talents aged between 16 to 18. Defending champions Odisha Juggernauts (owned by the Government of Odisha), Chennai Quick Guns (owned by KLO Sports), Gujarat Giants (owned by Adani Sportsline), Mumbai Khiladis (owned by Janhavi Dhariwal Balan, Punit Balan, and Badshah), Rajasthan Warriors (owned by Capri Global Group), and Telugu Yoddhas (owned by GMR Sports) will be the six franchises to fight for the coveted crown in the upcoming season. The exciting action from Season 2 will be broadcast live, and the fixtures will be announced soon.

  • Ultimate Kho Kho:143 players picked in season one players draft

    Ultimate Kho Kho:143 players picked in season one players draft

    Mumbai: The game of Kho Kho is set to enter a new era as a total of India’s 143 best players were hand-picked by six franchises on Thursday for the inaugural edition of the Ultimate Kho Kho in Pune.

    India’s first-ever franchise-based Kho-Kho league, promoted by Dabur India chairman Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, will be played from 14 August to 4 September at the Balewadi Stadium here.

    240 registered players, from 28 states and union territories were part of the draft process. They were divided into four categories, A, B, C and D, according to their performances in international matches, the recent National Championships and evaluation conducted by the league. 

    The 77-top players from category A, offered Rs 5 lakh and the South Asian Games gold medallist Pratik Waikar, Andhra Pradesh’s Pothireddy Sivareddy, Tamil Nadu’s M Vignesh and Karantaka’s Gowtham MK were among the 20 players who were handpicked by the franchises.

    While Waikar and defender Gowtham were picked by Telugu Yoddhas and Odisha Juggernauts respectively as their first pick, Chennai Quick Guns added local boy Vignesh to their squad. The 26-year-old all-rounder and one of the best pole divers in the country Sivareddy will represent the Gujarat side. 

    A viewer-friendly revamped format is expected to bring about a transformation in how this indigenous sport is perceived in the country.

    At the end of players draft, Ultimate Kho Kho CEO Tenzing Niyogi said, “Finally, the Ultimate Kho Kho drafts are over and it was a well-rounded draft which comprises players across the country. We are really happy and proud to see this first step in the progression of creating Ultimate Kho Kho as a mega league in the Indian sporting ecosystem. Now that the franchises will get to work with the players’ camp and the coaching camp till 1 August, our endeavour at Ultimate Kho Kho will be to market the game and make this league a grand success.”

    It was Maharashtra’s Mahesh Shinde, who became the first player to be picked in the players’ draft. The 27-year-old defender was drafted by KLO Sports-owned Chennai Quick Guns. 

    “We have a balanced squad of experienced and as well as youthful players so we are happy with it. Hopefully, during training, we will analyse their abilities based on that we will form a team. With the number of matches we will know how to form our team, ” said Chennai Quick Guns co-owner Srinath Chittoori.

    Adding to it, Mumbai team co-owner Punit Balan said,”We had some strategies, we had some players we wanted to select. We had a plan A, B and plan C. Some players which were in our plan A were already picked by other teams but obviously because we have multiple plans and we knew the right strategy, I think a good squad of 24 people for Mumbai Khiladis is ready. I feel it is a very balanced team. The approach is very clear, Mumbai Khiladis and their punchline is Khel Khila Denge, so we know we’ll tell our Khiladis to play their best and go and top the ladder.”

    Chennai Quick Guns, Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Khiladis, Odisha Juggernauts, Rajasthan Warriors, Telugu Yoddhas did their best to pick strong squads as they will fight for the title in the season 1.

    GMR League Games CEO Colonel Vinod Bisht, who owns Telugu Yoddhas commented, “Being the first season we have relied on the coaches input and who have gone ahead and suggested names. So we have taken a lot of players from the senior category which is A and B, then have blended them with a lot of youngsters in C and D. So we hope that with the experience and the youth which gives the bigger speed we will be able to do well in the first season.”.

    “As far as we are concerned from the Rajasthan Warrior side, I think we had a very satisfying draft. We are I think quite sure that we will be able to come up with a very successful team and very mature team in the season to come. I think we will give a very tough fight to whoever it is and of course, it depends on how we manage the team which I ensure we will do very well,” said Rajasthan Warriors owner and Capri Global director Ajit Sharan.

    34 matches will be played over the period of 21 days in the first season of the league. The knockout matches will be played in a playoff format which will consist of a qualifier and eliminator matches.

    “Ultimate Kho kho is a very good opportunity for our Odisha Kho-Kho team. We have been doing very well in junior levels and as the Odisha government has owned a franchise now it’s an opportunity for us to contribute towards the growth of this game. I think our team is better than all other teams because we have chosen very good players and mostly we got around 80% of our listed players,” stated government of Odisha OSD, department of sports and youth affairs Lilan Prasad Sahu.

    “We are excited to contribute to this game-changing experience through our franchise at UKK League. UKK will bring forth our indigenous sport in a new avatar, and we look forward to being a part of yet another journey of mud to mat. The right team selection is integral to the success of a franchise and a lot depends upon the sequence of the draft. But thanks to our coaches for having aptly strategized and selected the desired talent from a pool of 240 players,” said Gujarat Giants owner and Adani Sportsline head – corporate brand custodian  Satyam Trivedi.

    With Sony Sports Network being the official broadcaster of the Ultimate Kho Kho season one, the exciting live action will be telecast live in Hindi (SonyTEN 3), English (SonyTEN 1), Tamil and Telugu (SonyTEN 4) as well as on their OTT platform, SonyLIV. Two matches will be played during the league stage with the first match starting at 7 p.m.

  • Badshah and Punit Balan inks partnership deal for Mumbai team in Ultimate Kho Kho

    Badshah and Punit Balan inks partnership deal for Mumbai team in Ultimate Kho Kho

    Mumbai: A tinge of Bollywood has been added to Ultimate Kho Kho with popular singer Badshah joining the league as co-owner of the Mumbai franchise alongside renowned film producer, developer and sports enthusiast, Punit Balan.

    The Mumbai-based team completes the line-up for the inaugural edition of Ultimate Kho Kho which will take off later this year.

    Fascinated by the pace and elegant style of the game as well as the nostalgic value that the sport has for him, Badshah believes Ultimate Kho Kho has humongous potential. He aims to inspire and build superstars in this indigenous sport through this association.

    Speaking about his first sports venture Badshah said, “My mother used to play Kho-Kho during her college days and this ground-rooted game is very close to my heart. This nostalgic and personal connection triggered me to be part of Ultimate Kho Kho.”

    “It’s an adrenaline packed, fast-paced indoor sport with extremely agile players doing Sky-Dives in air. In general, the culture of Mumbai is fast and efficient and that’s what we want this team to be. My vision would be to nurture the best players out of this league, and we want to ensure the best environment, infrastructure, training and nutrition for the players,” he further added.

    Besides heading the Balan Group—a company, which is valued at Rs 3,500 crore, Punit Balan also owns teams in various sporting leagues like badminton, tennis, table tennis and handball league apart from investment in sports employment start-up and actively supporting various sportspersons.  

    Mumbai franchise co-owner Balan said, “It’s very important to adopt the right approach if you want to grow something. I have been involved in developing sports through leagues in the past and now alongside Ultimate Kho Kho, I want to play a part in Kho-Kho’s journey to success.”

    The traditional sport originated in Maharashtra and the state has been a dominant force in the Indian Kho-Kho circuit. As many as three teams from Maharashtra competed in the National Championships and in the recently concluded Khelo India Youth Games also, they emerged champions in both boys and girls categories.

    Ultimate Kho Kho CEO Tenzing Niyogi said, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Badshah and Punit as co-owners of the sixth franchise. We already have on-boarded big corporates as well as the Government of Odisha and now these two popular names from the entertainment sector reflect the positioning and calibre of the league. Kho-Kho has deep roots in Maharashtra and a team representing the state’s capital will surely help us bolster the popularity of the game.”

    With this development, Ultimate Kho Kho continues to take giant steps towards its mission of revolutionising this homegrown sport. The league had earlier added eminent corporate names to its roster including the Government of Odisha in collaboration with ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel, Adani Group, GMR Group, Capri Global and KLO Sports.

    The league will be broadcasted across Sony Network India’s (SPNI) sports channels SonyTEN 1(SD & HD), SonyTEN 3 (SD & HD), SonyTEN 4 and on SonyLIV in Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu as other regional languages.

  • Ultimate Kho Kho on-boards Odisha govt to own fifth franchise

    Ultimate Kho Kho on-boards Odisha govt to own fifth franchise

    Mumbai: The Odisha government has acquired ownership of a team in the soon-to-be-launched professional league, which can be viewed as a major boost for the Ultimate Kho Kho (UKK).

    It will be the Odisha government’s second direct sports endeavour; in 2013, it also owned a team—the Kalinga Lancers—in the Hockey India League. Days before the announcement, Odisha earned silver medals in the boys’ and girls’ Kho Kho competitions in the Khelo India Youth Games 2022.

    The Odisha Sports Development and Promotion Company (OSDPC)-owned team will be the fifth franchise in the league. OSDPC is collaborating with leading steel manufacturer ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) and will be working closely in Ultimate Kho Kho.

    Sports and Youth Services minister Tusharkanti Behera said, “Kho Kho is very popular in many parts of Odisha. In the recent Khelo India Youth Games, our boys and girls played well and won the silver medals. Since it’s a traditional game, we have huge scope to develop it further in the state. Therefore, we have decided to participate in the Kho Kho league. This is part of our Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Naveen Patnaik’s vision for sports in Odisha.”

    Ultimate Kho Kho CEO Tenzing Niyogi said, “Sports Odisha has been one of the key factors in the sporting revolution of India. Their focussed approach in developing a sport has been impressive. They have created an environment that has encouraged many corporate investments to create access for grassroots development and future champions. And now their association with Ultimate Kho Kho, is a great sign for the development of the sport.”

    Four franchises were previously declared by Ultimate Kho Kho. While Capri Global and KLO Sports are the owners of the Rajasthan and Chennai teams, respectively, corporate giants ADANI Group and GMR Group secured the Gujarat and Telangana franchises.

    With an exclusive multi-year contract, Ultimate Kho Kho has chosen Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) as its broadcast partner. The action from the league will be aired in English and other regional languages on Sony’s sports channels as well as on the OTT service SonyLIV.