Madurai, December 5, 2025: In a vibrant cultural showcase during the ongoing FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025, international teams staying in Madurai traveled to witness the famous traditional sport of Tamil Nadu – Jallikattu – at the Kalaignar Centenary Jaikattu Arena. Teams from Canada, Namibia, Egypt, Austria, China, Bangladesh, Korea, Oman and tournament officials arrived throughout the morning for the special visit, experiencing first-hand South India’s most cherished and indigenous sporting traditions. At the event in August to greet and interact with the teams, Tamil Nadu Commercial Taxes and Registration Minister P Moorthy was present.
The visit served as a powerful moment of cultural exchange, offering athletes from around the world a rare glimpse into the heritage, community spirit and athleticism that define Jallikattu. With Tamil Nadu hosting the largest ever edition of the Junior World Cup, the event also highlights the state’s commitment to showcasing India’s traditional sports on a global platform. 24 participating countries are participating in the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025.
To strengthen this cultural bond, the tournament mascot ‘Kangeyan’ draws direct inspiration from the Jallikattu tradition. Kangeyan embodies strength, pride and Tamil identity.
As teams come together to celebrate this unique cultural experience, the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 continues to strengthen its identity as a tournament that not only brings world-class hockey to India, but also brings the world closer to India’s rich sporting heritage.