Canadian Hockey Leaders Share Expertise in India via Inaugural Festival

NHL broadcaster Randip Janda and Abbotsford Canucks Assistant Coach Harry Mahesh are set to lead the inaugural India Hockey 360 Festival in Chandigarh, India, from July 31 to August 2. The event aims to share hockey expertise and strengthen global partnerships with emerging hockey communities.

Co-organized by Janda and multicultural sports marketing firm Tulsea Sports Marketing (TSM), the festival will bring together global hockey organizations, coaches, and community leaders through player development, coaching education, and grassroots programming. Key supporters include the National Hockey League (NHL), the Vancouver Canucks, Bauer Hockey, and the Ice Hockey Association of India (IHAI).

Janda, recognized as the NHL's first full-time South Asian color commentator, views the festival as an opportunity to give back to the sport by sharing his experience with India's next generation of players and coaches. "Hockey has given me incredible opportunities throughout my career, and this festival is about sharing that passion and creating opportunities for the next generation of players and coaches in India," Janda stated.

Mahesh will lead player development sessions and share professional coaching perspectives during the Coaches Summit. "The growth of hockey starts at the grassroots level," Mahesh said. "By sharing knowledge and creating access to the sport, we can help inspire more players and coaches in India." The festival includes a "Try Hockey" activation and a coaching and player development day.

The India Hockey 360 Festival is designed to foster long-term pathways for hockey development in India through international partnerships and community engagement. Events will be held at Nexus Elante Chandigarh and the Sector 10 Rink.