The Indian sporting community is in mourning following the demise of former world billiards champion and current chief national coach, Manoj Kothari. The legendary figure in cue sports passed away on Monday at the age of 67 after suffering a massive cardiac arrest.
A Sudden Demise in Tamil Nadu
Kothari breathed his last at a hospital in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. According to a family member who spoke to PTI, the veteran had been undergoing treatment at the medical facility for over a week. His condition took a tragic turn when he suffered the cardiac arrest around 7:30 am on Monday, January 5, 2026. His last rites were performed on Monday evening near Tirunelveli itself.
He leaves behind his wife, his son Sourav Kothari – who is also a former world billiards champion – and his daughter, Shreya Kothari. The family, along with the entire fraternity of cue sports, is grappling with this immense loss.
A Champion's Legacy: From Player to Architect
Manoj Kothari was not just a player; he was a pillar of Indian billiards for more than three decades. His journey to the pinnacle of the sport began when he clinched the IBSF World Billiards Championship in 1990. This victory announced India's arrival on the global billiards stage and cemented Kothari's place among the sport's elite.
Demonstrating remarkable versatility and longevity, he added another prestigious title to his name in 1997 by winning the World Doubles Billiards Championship. However, his contributions extended far beyond his playing days.
After hanging up his cue as a player, Kothari seamlessly transitioned into a role that would shape the future of Indian cue sports. He served as the chief coach of the Indian billiards team from 2011, guiding the nation to multiple world titles over more than a decade. His technical acumen and strategic mind helped nurture several generations of players, preparing them for the rigors of international competition.
The Kothari Dynasty and National Recognition
His most profound influence was perhaps seen in the career of his son, Sourav. Kothari was far more than a father to Sourav; he was his technical coach, strategist, and disciplinarian. This unique mentorship played a crucial role in moulding Sourav into a world champion, creating the only father-son world champion pairing in any sport.
In recognition of his immense service to Indian sports, the Government of India honoured Manoj Kothari with the prestigious Dhyan Chand Award in 2005. The award was presented to him by the then President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
The Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI) expressed profound sorrow at his passing. BSFI President S Balasubramaniam stated, "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of former World billiards champion and chief national coach Manoj Kothari. His demise is a huge loss to the cue sports fraternity."
Echoing the sentiment of a legacy beyond trophies, his son Sourav told PTI, "His selfless service produced many players who went on to become champions of the sport. He was a living legend who inspired many lives." The family is expected to hold a mourning service in their hometown of Kolkata.
The passing of Manoj Kothari marks the end of an era for Indian cue sports. He will be remembered not only for his victories but as a foundational figure who built champions and inspired a nation.
