March 25, 2026
RED FM News Desk
The Calgary Flames are set to host their third annual South Asian Celebration Game this Saturday, March 28, as they take on the Vancouver Canucks at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. MT, with the game airing nationally on Hockey Night in Canada and Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi. Seven-year-old TELUS Skater Keatan Brar will lead the Flames onto the ice for the special occasion.
As part of the 2026 celebration, the Flames have partnered with Calgary-born artist Navi Jhaj to unveil a new South Asian Celebration logo. The design features a distinctive interpretation of the iconic Flaming “C,” incorporating textile-inspired elements that reflect patterns found in traditional garments, shawls, and embroidery. Drawing from Punjabi, Rajasthani, Kashmiri, and Mughal influences, the artwork pays tribute to the rich cultural heritage passed down through generations. Jhaj, a proud Punjabi and mother of twins, says the project reflects her passion for preserving and sharing South Asian culture.
South Asian culture will be woven throughout the game-day experience. Calgary-based DJ Joash Charles will provide music during pre-game and warm-ups, while fans entering the arena can enjoy live performances on the main concourse by Nachda Punjab Bhangra Academy, Static Bollywood Dance, and Calgary’s Finest Dholis. A photo station will also be available behind Section 228 for fans to capture the moment.
Entertainment will continue during the intermissions, with the first break featuring a South Asian Minor Hockey Shootout. The second intermission will showcase a traditional Bhangra performance by Nachda Punjab Bhangra Academy alongside Calgary’s Finest Dholis, while Static Bollywood Dance will also perform during a TV timeout in the Red Corner.
In the lead-up to the game, the Flames, in partnership with 2020 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award recipient Dampy Brar, will take part in a South Asian Ball Hockey event on Friday, March 27 at the Vision Sports Centre in southeast Calgary. The event will bring together youth athletes, community leaders, Flames staff, alumni, and mascot Harvey the Hound to celebrate cultural pride and community connection.
Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase exclusive merchandise featuring the South Asian Celebration logo at CGY Team Stores inside the Saddledome. In addition, the Flames have collaborated with APNA Hockey to release a limited-edition collection available during the event.
CSEC also hosted the Calgary South Asian Business Summit on Wednesday, March 25, in partnership with Tulsea Sports Marketing. The summit brought together leading entrepreneurs, investors, and executives to explore Calgary’s emergence as a global hub for innovation, investment, and diaspora-driven growth. Keynote speakers included Robert Hayes, CEO of CSEC; Harish Consul, CEO of Ocgrow Ventures; and Raghav, a globally renowned musical artist and Flames South Asian Ambassador.
The program featured panel discussions on AI, technology, and sports and entertainment as platforms for market entry, while highlighting the growing influence of the South Asian community and fostering meaningful connections through networking.
Loading ...
