Ceylon Sapphire Mining Pvt. Ltd., has sponsored the introduction of Beach Kho Kho to the country. The much-awaited launching was held on 24 December, 2024 at Negombo Beach. Sri Lanka Kho Kho Federation (SLKKF) Secretary and veteran sports instructor Athula Wijenayake has worked for years to introduce Kho Kho and Beach Kho Kho to Sri Lanka, paving the way for local players to participate in international tournaments. With the introduction of Beach Kho Kho, Sri Lanka now has the platform to showcase its talent on the global stage. Ceylon Sapphire Mining Chairman Sanjeewa Priyantha Fonseka is also the President of the Sri Lanka Beach Kho Kho Federation and the Vice President of the SLKKF. Supporting him and Wijenayake are Lieutenant Commander Chandralal Nanayakkara and Dayananda Nawarathna, and Budhdhika Ranaraja, who serve as SLKKF Vice Presidents and Treasurer, respectively. Major Aruna Kumara, Director of Ceylon Sapphire Mining Pvt. Ltd., also plays a key role in advancing Kho Kho through the organisation’s support.
Ceylon Sapphire Mining Pvt. Ltd. is a leader in eco-friendly gem mining. Its subsidiary, Ceylon Facet Pvt. Ltd., is renowned for cutting and polishing gems from around the world, including New Zealand, Thailand, and China. With nearly 30 years of experience, the company exports gems to major markets like Europe, China, and the United States, while providing jobs to over 125 individuals, including those with special needs. Sri Lankan Kho Kho Team is also getting ready for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup. The tournament will be held in New Delhi, India, from 13 to 19 January 2025, featuring teams from 24 countries, including men’s and women’s teams. It will feature an exciting lineup of 21 men’s teams and 20 women’s teams competing over several days. Demonstration matches with top players such as Pratik Waiker, Aditya Ganpule, and Priyanka Ingle have already built excitement for the event. Kho Kho, a sport that originated in India, has a history spanning over 150 years.
