In a thrilling finale held at Poornaprajna College Grounds, Udupi, the host team Mangalore University edged past Mumbai University to win the All-India Inter-University Men’s Kho-Kho Championship 2025. Displaying exceptional teamwork and spirit, Mumbai University secured the runners-up position after a fierce and closely contested final match.
16 Teams from Across the Nation
This prestigious tournament witnessed participation from the top 16 university teams across India, representing the East, West, South, and North zones. In the final clash, Mangalore University narrowly defeated Mumbai University with a score of 11-10, sealing the match with 5 minutes and 10 seconds to spare. The game kept spectators on the edge of their seats with every twist and turn.
Akash Kadam Shines Bright
Mumbai University’s captain Akash Kadam from Ratnagiri stood out as the star of the tournament. With resilient defensive stints of 1.50 and 1.40 minutes and securing a crucial point, his stellar performance earned him the Best All-Round Player of the Tournament award.
He was ably supported by teammates:
Sanket Jadhav (1.20 & 1.50 min defence), Shubham Jadhav (1.50 min defence), Prathamesh Durgavale and Aditya Kamble (1 min defence and 2 points each), and Abhay Ratnakar (3 points). Despite their valiant effort, victory remained just out of reach.
The Winning Trio from Mangalore
Mangalore University’s success was anchored by outstanding performances from: Mareppa (1.50 & 2.50 min defence), Swami (1.50 & 3.20 min defence, 1 point), and, Suhas (1.50 & 1 min defence, 2 points).
Swami’s remarkable 3.20-minute defence proved to be a game-changer.
Mumbai’s Impressive Journey
Before reaching the final, Mumbai University overcame formidable opponents, defeating Delhi University in the quarter-finals and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in the semi-finals.
Institutional Support and Encouragement
The exceptional performance of the team was lauded by Prof. Dr. Ravindra Kulkarni (Vice-Chancellor), Dr. Ajay Bhamre (Pro-Vice Chancellor), and Dr. Prasad Karande (Registrar) of Mumbai University, who extended their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the players.
Special credit goes to coaches Dalesh Desai and Shashank Upshete, and to Dr. Manoj Reddy, Director of Sports, for their meticulous planning and dedicated support throughout the championship.
A Finale to Remember
With rapid momentum shifts, intense matchups, and unforgettable performances, this year’s championship finale has etched itself as a remarkable chapter in university sports history.
Though the title eluded them, Mumbai University’s unity, sportsmanship, and high-caliber gameplay left a lasting impression.