After nearly two decades on Canadian television, the Punjabi‑language edition of Hockey Night in Canada has been removed from the schedule. The cancellation follows a long‑term decline in audience numbers and the mounting costs of producing a niche broadcast.
Sportsnet and CBC confirmed in June that the latter would no longer carry NHL games, bringing to a close a 74‑year partnership that began when the CBC first televised hockey in 1952. The move is part of a broader restructuring of the network’s sports programming.
The Punjabi broadcast first appeared on CBS in 2008 before moving to the Omni network when the NHL shifted its rights. Shortly thereafter, Sportsnet assumed production responsibilities, creating an in‑house version that carried the iconic Hockey Night in Canada brand.
The Voice Behind the Calls
Renowned announcer Harnarayan Singh became the face of the Punjabi telecast, his energetic catch‑phrases — most famously "Bonino! Bonino! Bonino!" — resonating with viewers across the country. Singh’s commentary not only highlighted key moments but also celebrated the presence of South Asian players in the league.
For many in Canada’s Punjabi community, the program was more than a sports show; it was a cultural bridge that connected families, celebrated heritage, and introduced a new generation to hockey. Statistics show that over 900,000 residents identify as Punjabi, making the broadcast a vital space for representation.
The decision to cancel the Punjabi version was framed as a necessary step for long‑term production sustainability. Sportsnet cited the need to allocate resources more efficiently while preserving the broader Hockey Night in Canada brand.
Although the Punjabi telecast will no longer air new episodes, its legacy endures in the stories it told, the community it fostered, and the memorable calls that still echo in the memories of fans. The end of the series marks a bittersweet chapter in Canadian sports media history.