#India #Chandigarh #Randip Janda #India Hockey 360 #Harry Mahesh

India Hockey 360 Festival: Bringing NHL Expertise to India

In a vibrant celebration of hockey culture, Chandigarh, India, will host the inaugural India Hockey 360 Festival from July 31 to August 2, 2026. Spearheaded by Randip Janda, the voice of Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi, and Abbotsford Canucks Assistant Coach Harry Mahesh, this festival aims to cultivate international hockey connections and enhance the game at the grassroots level.

A Vision for Growth

The festival is organized in partnership with Tulsea Sports Marketing, a multicultural firm adept at linking North American sports organizations with South Asian communities globally. With backing from respected institutions like the NHL and the Vancouver Canucks, the festival seeks not only to promote hockey in India but to strengthen existing ties with emerging hockey markets worldwide.

Randip Janda, heralded as the first full-time South Asian colour commentator in NHL history, views the festival as an opportunity to share his passion and insights gained over years in professional hockey. "Hockey has opened doors for me, and now I want to help shape the future of this sport in India by sharing my journey with aspiring players and coaches," Janda expressed.

Grassroots Engagement

Harry Mahesh is set to play a crucial role in the festival, leading player development sessions that emphasize the importance of grassroots involvement. "The growth of hockey starts at the grassroots level. By sharing knowledge and resources, we can inspire a new generation of players and coaches in India," he stated, reflecting a commitment to nurturing local talent.

The festival offers a rich schedule of events designed to cater to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Activities include:

• - Try Hockey Activation on August 1 at Nexus Elante Chandigarh, welcoming players of all ages from 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
• - Coaching and Player Development Day in collaboration with the Ice Hockey Association of India on August 2 at Sector 10 Rink, featuring a Coaches Summit from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM and a Roller Hockey Clinic from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM.

Building Long-Term Pathways

The India Hockey 360 Festival is envisaged as a long-term initiative, creating sustainable pathways for hockey development in India. By connecting local players and coaches with international expertise, the festival aims to foster a vibrant hockey community, making the sport more accessible across the region.

In conclusion, the India Hockey 360 Festival represents an important step in elevating hockey’s presence in India while nurturing the next generation of talent. As partnerships flourish between international hockey organizations and local communities, the festival stands as a beacon of hope for hockey enthusiasts eager to embrace the sport’s rich traditions and future possibilities.

Media Availability

Randip Janda and Harry Mahesh will be available for in-person interviews in Vancouver before July 25, 2026. Additionally, virtual interviews can be scheduled with them and representatives from Tulsea Sports Marketing before and after the festival, ensuring ample opportunities for coverage and discussion around this groundbreaking initiative.