Udupi, April 12, 2025: In a gripping finale at the Shree Vibudhesha Tirtha Swamiji Indoor Stadium, Udupi, the Mangalore University men’s team emerged as the national champions of the All India Inter-University Men’s Kho-Kho Tournament, edging past Mumbai University with a close 11-10 victory.
The tournament, hosted by Poorna Prajna College in collaboration with the Department of Physical Education, Mangalore University, saw intense competition among 16 top teams from across the country. The final brought together two previous semifinalists — Mangalore and Mumbai — both of whom had shared third place in the previous edition. This time, however, it was Mangalore University who claimed the coveted winner’s trophy with a stellar team performance.
The match was highlighted by the aggressive chasing skills of Dikshith M.J. and the defensive brilliance of Nikhil B., who played pivotal roles in the team’s triumph.
Individual Honors
Three standout performers were recognized for their individual excellence throughout the three-day tournament. Nikhil B. of Mangalore University was named Best Defender, Dikshith M.J. was awarded Best Chaser and Akash Kadam from runner-up Mumbai University was honored as the tournament’s Best All-Round Player.
The valedictory function was graced by Sri Eeshapriya Tirtha Swamiji, junior seer of Adamaru Math and president of the college’s governing council, who, along with other dignitaries, distributed trophies and offered blessings to the winners.