Pune has long been a hub for sporting talent, but in recent years, the district has produced a remarkable set of athletes who are redefining the game of Kho-Kho on national and international stages.
Four standout players—Kajal Bhor, Suyash Gargate, Milind Kurpe, and Priyanka Ingle—have emerged as the new faces of this traditional Indian sport, earning accolades and admiration for their stellar performances.
Kajal Bhor: A Champion from Ambegaon
Kajal Bhor, hailing from Ambegaon Taluka, has quickly become a shining star in the world of Kho-Kho. With a humble background as the daughter of a farmer, Kajal’s rise in the sport is nothing short of inspiring.
She has represented India in the South Asian Kho-Kho Championship, where she played a key role in securing a gold medal for the country. Kajal’s leadership shone through when she captained Maharashtra’s women’s team to victory at the National Games in Goa, earning another prestigious gold medal.
Kajal’s journey is a testament to her tenacity and hard work. Competing in 18 national-level tournaments, she has established herself as one of the top players in the sport, and her impact on the field is undeniable.
Reflecting on her success, Kajal shared, “Kho-Kho has given me recognition on a level I never imagined. It’s been an incredible journey, and I hope to inspire more girls from rural areas to pursue this sport.”
Suyash Gargate: Pune’s Kho-Kho Prodigy
Suyash Gargate has earned his place as one of Pune’s most talented Kho-Kho players. Known for his speed and sharp reflexes, Suyash has been a critical asset to the Maharashtra team in numerous national competitions. His presence on the field is electrifying, and he has consistently played a pivotal role in his team’s victories.
Suyash’s journey from local tournaments to representing Maharashtra at the national level is a story of grit and determination. His agility and quick thinking make him a formidable player, and his influence extends beyond just his own performance—he has become a role model for aspiring Kho-Kho players in Pune. "Kho-Kho has been my passion for as long as I can remember. It's an honor to represent my state, and I aim to keep pushing my limits," said Suyash.
Milind Kurpe: A Rising Star in Pune’s Kho-Kho Circuit
Milind Kurpe is another name that has been making waves in Maharashtra’s Kho-Kho scene. His journey has been marked by relentless hard work and a determination to excel in every match.
Milind has represented Pune in several state and national tournaments, contributing significantly to his team’s success with his tactical prowess and athletic ability.
Milind’s rise in the sport has been meteoric, earning him respect and admiration from fellow athletes and coaches alike. His passion for Kho-Kho has propelled him to new heights, and he has become a key figure in Pune’s sports community.
“Kho-Kho has taught me discipline and focus, both on and off the field. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved so far, but there’s still a lot more to do,” Milind stated.
Priyanka Ingle: Pune’s Trailblazing Kho-Kho Talent
Among Pune’s growing roster of Kho-Kho champions, Priyanka Ingle stands out as a force to be reckoned with. Representing Pune in numerous state and national competitions, Priyanka has consistently delivered standout performances, helping her teams secure crucial victories. Her agility, speed, and game sense make her one of the top female players in Maharashtra’s Kho-Kho circuit.
Priyanka’s success in the sport has not only brought her individual acclaim but has also highlighted the immense potential of women athletes in traditional sports like Kho-Kho.
“I’ve always been passionate about Kho-Kho, and it’s incredible to see how far the sport has come, especially for women. There’s so much more talent waiting to be discovered,” Priyanka said, reflecting on her journey.
The Role of the Maharashtra Kho-Kho Association
National Kho-Kho coach Sandeep Chavan lauded the efforts of the association, stating, “Maharashtra has always been a stronghold for Kho-Kho, but the recent achievements of these players have taken it to another level. Their performances are not just about winning medals, but about inspiring a new generation of athletes.”