India: Tamil Nadu Trophy Tour and Official Mascot ‘Kangeyan’ Launched for FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025

~Honourable Deputy Chief Minister Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin to flag off Tamil Nadu Trophy Tour; ‘Kangeyan’ unveiled as official mascot ~

Chennai, November 10, 2025: The Tamil Nadu Trophy Tour and the official mascot of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 were launched at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai on Monday. The tournament will be held in Chennai and Madurai from November 28 to December 10, 2025.

The Trophy Tour was jointly flagged off by Honorable Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin and FIH President Dato Tayyab Ikram. The Trophy Tour will travel across 38 districts of Tamil Nadu, from Kanyakumari to Chennai, between November 10 and 25, 2025, to celebrate the state’s deep bond with the sport and build excitement among fans and young athletes ahead of the global event.

Also present at the event thhiru darandhi maraan, MP, smt. Tamilachi thangapandian, member of parliament, thiru pk sekar babu, minister for hindu religious and charitable endowments, government of tamil nadu, thiru paraanthamen, mla, egmore, dr. Atu misra, IAAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu, MS. Priya Rajan, Mayor of Chenai, Thiru J. Meghananai Reddy, IAAS, Member Secretary, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, Indian Hockey General Bhola Nath and Thiru Sekar J. Manoharan, Treasurer, Hockey India and President, Hockey. Tamil Nadu Unity.

The event also saw the unveiling of the official tournament mascot ‘Kangeyan’. Kangeyan takes its name and inspiration from the Kangeyam Kaalai, an indigenous breed of bull that symbolizes strength, pride and Tamil identity. The majestic Kangeyam, native to the Kongu region and revered across Tamil Nadu, is celebrated for his bravery in Jallikkattu, especially in Madurai, where the sport has flourished as a cultural emblem.

For generations, Tamil farmers have regarded the Kangeyam as a member of their family, a journeyman, a guardian of tradition and a reflection of perseverance. Through ‘Kangeyan’, Tamil Nadu proudly showcases its deep-rooted heritage, connecting the passion of the sport with the enduring spirit of its people.

Ahead of the event, the tournament organizing committee, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin, held a high-level coordination meeting to review preparations and ensure seamless conduct of the upcoming tournament.

Dr. Dilip Tirkey, President, Hockey India, said: “Tamil Nadu has shown exemplary commitment in hosting the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup. The detailed assessment by the committee and the launch of the Trophy Tour reflect the enthusiasm and commitment of the state. With the unveiling of ‘Kangeyan’, a symbol of Tamil pride and resilience, we are confident that this edition will leave a lasting legacy for Indian hockey.”

Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh added: “The partnership between Hockey India, the Government of Tamil Nadu and FIH has been excellent. From infrastructure development to grassroots involvement through the Trophy Tour, every effort is being made to ensure a world-class experience for teams and fans. The passion and support of the people of Tamil Nadu will make this Junior World Cup truly special.”