Kho – Kho : History, Rules and Measurements

Kho Kho is one of India’s most engaging and dynamic traditional sports, blending speed, strategy, and teamwork. The game, originating in Maharashtra, is beloved across the country, and its influence has even spread internationally. While the game may seem simple on the surface, it has specific rules and court measurements that add structure and excitement to the fast-paced action. Let’s dive into the essential rules and the dimensions of a Kho Kho court.

The Rich History of Kho Kho: From Ancient Origins to Modern Fame

Kho Kho is one of the oldest and most cherished traditional sports in India, tracing its roots back to ancient times. Known for its dynamic pace and strategic complexity, the sport has evolved from a rudimentary game of pursuit to a well-organized competitive sport with international recognition.

Ancient Beginnings

Kho Kho’s origins lie in the rural landscapes of Maharashtra, where it was played as a simple yet energetic chase game. The exact timeline of its birth is unclear, but it is widely believed that it has been played for centuries, possibly as a way for warriors to develop quick reflexes, agility, and teamwork. The game’s structure revolves around the concept of “run and chase,” a theme common in many ancient sports. The word “Kho” itself is thought to have derived from the Sanskrit word “Syu,” which means “stand and go,” reflecting the active and fast-paced nature of the game.

In its earliest form, Kho Kho did not have any formal rules or guidelines. It was played for fun and fitness, often in open fields, where participants relied on instinct and agility to outmaneuver their opponents. Despite its simplicity, the game quickly gained popularity across rural India, particularly in Maharashtra, where it was played regularly by villagers.

The Modernization of Kho Kho

Kho Kho began its journey toward formalization in the early 20th century. In 1914, the first set of official rules for the game was created by the Akhil Maharashtra Sharirik Shikshan Mandal and the Gymkhana Club of Pune. This marked the beginning of the sport’s transition from an informal rural game to an organized sport. The modernization efforts were further supported by organizations like the Hanuman Vyayam Prasarak Mandal in Baroda, which played a key role in refining the rules and establishing Kho Kho as a competitive sport.

By the 1920s, Kho Kho had spread beyond Maharashtra and was being played in schools and colleges across India. In 1924, the first official publication of Kho Kho rules was released by the Gymkhana Baroda, cementing the standardized format of the game.

National Competitions and Growth

Kho Kho’s rise in popularity led to the organization of the first national competitions in the 1960s. The first national men’s Kho Kho championship took place in 1960 in Vijayawada, followed by the first national women’s competition in Kolhapur in 1961. These competitions not only provided a platform for skilled players but also helped unify the sport across different regions of India.

In 1955, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) was established to oversee the organization and promotion of the sport on a national level. The formation of the KKFI gave the sport more visibility and structure, with regular tournaments and championships being held throughout the country. The federation also played a vital role in bringing international attention to Kho Kho.

International Recognition

Kho Kho’s international journey began with the formation of the Asian Kho Kho Federation (AKKF) in 1987. This was a significant step toward promoting the sport on a global scale. The AKKF organized the first Asian Kho Kho Championship in 1996, further expanding the sport’s reach beyond India.

In recent years, efforts have been made to promote Kho Kho in various Asian countries, with the sport gaining a following in nations such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. While still primarily an Indian sport, the growing international interest suggests that Kho Kho could one day become a global phenomenon.

The Structure and Measurements of a Kho Kho Court

Court Dimensions:

• A standard Kho Kho court is rectangular, measuring 27 meters in length and 16 meters in width. The court is divided into two equal halves by a central lane, and each half includes a designated free zone at the ends. The free zones measure 1.5 meters by 2.55 meters, providing an area where players can move without restriction.

Team Block:

The Central Lane and Cross Lanes:

The central lane is 24 meters long and 30 cm wide, running the entire length of the court. Cross lanes, which are 35 cm wide, intersect the central lane and are crucial for the players’ movements. The cross lanes help chasers in planning their approach to tag runners and assist in smoothly transitioning between teammates during the game.

Posts and Free Zones:

At either end of the central lane are two poles or posts, each standing 120 to 125 cm high with a 9 to 10 cm diameter. These posts mark the end boundaries of the field and play a vital role in the game’s dynamics. Players can use the posts to change direction during play, adding an element of quick decision-making. Surrounding these posts are the free zones, which provide additional space for runners to evade chasers.

Substitution Zones and Team Blocks:

There are designated zones for player substitutions and team activities during the game. The substitution zones, measuring 1 meter by 1 meter, are located along the sidelines. These zones allow for seamless player changes without disrupting the flow of the game. Additionally, team blocks provide a designated area for non-active players during gameplay.

Line Markings:

The boundaries and lanes of the court are marked with lines that are 2 to 4 cm wide. These lines ensure that all players adhere to the rules of movement and direction, maintaining the structured flow of the game.

The Basic Rules of Kho Kho

Kho Kho is played between two teams, each consisting of 12 players, with only 9 players actively participating on the field at any given time. The game is divided into two main roles: chasers (attackers) and runners (defenders). The objective of the game for the chasers is to catch and tag the runners, while the runners attempt to evade the chasers within the boundaries of the field.

Starting the Game:

The game begins with a toss. The winner of the toss has the option to choose either chasing or running. Chasers take their positions in a straight line along the central lane, seated facing alternate directions. The runners are positioned around the court, ready to evade the chasers.

Chasing and Defending:

The chasers aim to tag the defenders by touching them with their hands. Only one active chaser is allowed to pursue a defender at any given time. The active chaser can pass the chasing responsibility to a seated teammate by touching them from behind and calling out “Kho.” This tag must be synchronized with the verbal call, and only then can the seated player become the new active chaser.

Movement and Direction:

Once a chaser becomes active, they must continue in the direction they initially started until they cross the central lane. Changing direction mid-movement without crossing the lane is not allowed. This adds a layer of strategic decision-making as players must plan their moves carefully.

Innings and Duration:

The game is played in two innings of 9 minutes each, with a 6-minute interval in between. Each team alternates between chasing and running during the two innings. If the score is tied after both innings, the game may go into extra innings or sudden death, depending on the tournament rules.

Temporary Substitutions:

If a player is injured during the game, a temporary substitution can be made for up to two minutes. After this time, the injured player must return to the field, or the team must continue with a different formation.

Fouls and Penalties:

Certain actions are prohibited during the game, such as using excessive force, pushing a defender out of bounds, or resting on a teammate while chasing. These acts are considered fouls and are penalized. Minor offenses may result in verbal warnings, while severe infractions could lead to disqualification from the match.

Conclusion

Kho Kho’s blend of agility, strategy, and teamwork makes it one of the most exciting traditional sports in India. Its well-defined rules and carefully measured court dimensions contribute to its thrilling nature, keeping players and spectators engaged throughout the match. Whether you’re an avid player or a new enthusiast, understanding these aspects of the game enhances appreciation and performance, ensuring that Kho Kho continues to thrive both locally and internationally.