Liverpool, NSW – In a landmark moment for Indian sports in Australia, Kho Kho Australia proudly inaugurated the country’s first dedicated Kho Kho ground at Marsden Road Public School in Liverpool, Sydney. The two-day celebration, held on the 23rd and 24th of May 2025, marked a significant step in the promotion of this fast-paced traditional Indian sport on Australian soil.
The festivities kicked off on 23rd May with a special school event attended by over 500 students, who witnessed a thrilling live demonstration of Kho Kho. The excitement and curiosity in the crowd set the tone for the wider public launch the following day.
Esteemed guests at the student event included Peter Rouse, Director of Leadership and Liverpool Principal Network at the Department of Education NSW; Charishma Kaliyanda MP; Nirav Sutariya, Consul and Head of Chancery at the Consulate General of India; and School Principal Manisha Gazula—each underscoring the value of cultural and sporting diversity in education.
On Friday, 24th May, the atmosphere was electric as the official public launch drew a lively crowd. Spectators were treated to high-energy exhibition matches featuring seasoned World Cup players and rising local talents. The dynamic displays of speed, strategy, and athleticism captivated the audience, many of whom were witnessing Kho Kho for the very first time.
Distinguished attendees included Mr. Sameer Pandey, Councillor and former Lord Mayor of the City of Parramatta; Dr. Rajiv Jairam, President of HSS NSW; Peter Harle, Deputy Mayor of Liverpool Council; and again, Principal Manisha Gazula. Their presence symbolised strong community support for multicultural sports initiatives.
A key highlight of the new ground is its innovative design featuring the world’s first removable Kho Kho pole system. This pioneering mechanism allows the facility to seamlessly accommodate other sports, making it a flexible, multi-use space and a replicable model for community sport grounds nationwide. Kho Kho Australia is already working with stakeholders in Canberra and Melbourne to expand access and promote the sport across the country.
“Playing on this new ground has been an incredible experience. The facility is world-class,” said player Mudra Bhatt.
“It’s amazing to see Kho Kho gaining recognition and support here in Australia,” added fellow player Michael Limanuel.
Committee member Varsha Tembe noted,
“This ground represents a milestone in promoting Kho Kho nationally. Achieving this just months after the World Cup in January is a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved.”
The event was also deeply personal for one Australian coach and former national-level player from India. Once a representative of Maharashtra, Pune University, and Nav Maharashtra Sangh in India’s top championships over 30 years ago, he recently returned to the game—first as a participant in World Cup practice sessions, and now as a selected player for Team Australia in the upcoming Kho Kho World Cup in Delhi, featuring 20 countries.
“I never dreamed I’d play Kho Kho for Australia,” he reflected. “But I’m incredibly excited to wear the Green and Gold.”
Kho Kho Australia’s initiative not only brings a piece of Indian heritage to Australia but also celebrates inclusivity, active living, and cross-cultural engagement through sport. As the first dedicated ground of its kind, Liverpool’s Kho Kho facility stands as a testament to innovation, nostalgia, and a promising future—where tradition and modern community spirit run side by side.
