TAMIL NADU TROPHY TOUR and the official mascot for 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 hosted across Chennai and Madurai from 28 November to 10 December.
The Trophy Tour was jointly flagged off by the Honourable Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru Udhayanidhi Stalin, and FIH president Dato Tayyab Ikram. The tour will cover all 38 districts of Tamil Nadu, travelling from Kanyakumari to Chennai between 10 and 25 November. The initiative aims to celebrate the state’s rich hockey heritage while generating excitement among fans and young athletes ahead of the global event.
The launch event also featured the unveiling of the official tournament mascot, ‘Kangeyan’. The mascot takes its name and inspiration from the Kangeyam Kaalai, a native breed of bull that embodies strength, pride, and Tamil identity. Indigenous to the Kongu region and deeply revered across the state, the Kangeyam is renowned for its valour in Jallikkattu, particularly in Madurai, where the traditional sport has long been a symbol of Tamil culture.
For generations, Tamil farmers have regarded the Kangeyam bull as part of their family, a steadfast companion in work, a guardian of tradition, and a reflection of perseverance. Through ‘Kangeyan’, Tamil Nadu celebrates this enduring heritage, linking the passion of hockey with the resilient spirit of its people.
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey said, “Tamil Nadu has shown exemplary commitment in hosting the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup. The committee’s detailed review and the launch of the Trophy Tour reflects the state’s enthusiasm and dedication. With the unveiling of ‘Kangeyan’, a symbol of Tamil pride and resilience, we are confident this edition will leave a lasting legacy for Indian hockey.”
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh added, “The collaboration between Hockey India, the Government of Tamil Nadu and FIH has been outstanding. From infrastructure development to grassroots engagement through the Trophy Tour, every effort is being made to ensure a world-class experience for teams and fans. The passion and support from the people of Tamil Nadu will make this Junior World Cup truly special.”
