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The Waikar family from Pune, India, experienced a resounding triumph at the inaugural kho-kho World Cup in New Delhi. This remarkable achievement saw 32-year-old Pratik Waikar captain the victorious Indian men's team, while his cousin's wife, 42-year-old Prachi Waikar, coached the winning women's squad. This double victory underscores not only the family's exceptional talent and dedication to the sport but also highlights the rising global interest in kho-kho. Pratik, a senior technician at MSEDCL, described the win as a momentous occasion, emphasizing the intense competition, particularly against Nepal, Iran, and South Africa. He attributed the success to meticulous preparation, highlighting his role in identifying and fostering talent within the team, motivating players, and ensuring cohesive performance. He expressed gratitude to MSEDCL for their support, which allowed him the flexibility to attend practice sessions.
Prachi Waikar, sports head at a prominent Pune school, echoed the sentiments of jubilation. She emphasized the rigorous training undertaken by the women's team in New Delhi since mid-December, attributing their victory to consistent hard work and dedication. Beyond their individual achievements, the Waikars have also demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering the sport within their community. Prachi and her husband, Sanat, a kho-kho player himself, established Krida Niketan, a club in Pune that provides opportunities for children from underprivileged backgrounds to participate in the sport. This initiative reflects a broader family ethos that extends beyond personal success to encompass community engagement and the development of future kho-kho talent.
The Waikar family's success is deeply rooted in a shared passion for kho-kho that has been passed down through generations. Pratik's father, Kiran Waikar, highlighted how both Pratik and his older brother, Kunal, secured jobs with MSEDCL and Indian Railways respectively due to their exceptional kho-kho skills. This familial legacy underscores the profound impact that kho-kho has had on the Waikar family's lives, shaping their careers and fostering a strong sense of collective identity. Pratik's journey began early, with his natural agility leading to his admission to the renowned Navmaharashtra Club at the tender age of eight. From there, he rose through the ranks, captaining the Maharashtra under-14 kho-kho team before embarking on a successful senior career. He balanced his sporting pursuits with his education, earning a degree in computer science and an MBA in finance, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence.
The dedication to kho-kho is a constant thread that runs throughout Pratik's life, as recounted by his wife, Kshitija. She fondly recalls how he often missed family events due to practice sessions, demonstrating the depth of his commitment. Even when present, his participation was often brief, as he would quickly return to his training schedule. Despite the sacrifices, Kshitija shared the immense joy of witnessing Pratik's World Cup victory, a moment made even more special by their three-year-old son, Rushank, who enthusiastically chanted “India, India”, showcasing the family's shared pride and nationalistic fervor. The Waikar family's story represents a perfect blend of exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, community engagement, and a deep-rooted passion for kho-kho, making their World Cup triumph all the more significant and inspiring.
The family's collective success in the kho-kho World Cup serves as a testament to the power of familial support, consistent hard work, and dedication to one's craft. Their win represents not just a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for the sport of kho-kho in India and globally. The Waikar family’s journey underscores the positive influence of sports in bringing families together, fostering community engagement, and inspiring future generations of athletes. The impact extends beyond individual achievements to the promotion and development of the sport at both national and international levels. The narrative surrounding the Waikars is not just one of athletic prowess but of a unified family united by their love for kho-kho and their unwavering determination to excel.
Source: Pune’s Waikar leads men’s kho kho team to glory, his kin coach of winning women’s squad