RIP Harpal Singh Bedi | Hockey India mourns demise of veteran journalist

RIP Harpal Singh Bedi | Hockey India is deeply saddened to announce the passing of veteran journalist Harpal Singh Bedi. Known for his extensive coverage of hockey and other sports, Bedi was a respected figure in the field of sports journalism. His death marks the end of an era for many who admired his dedication and passion for Indian sports.

He passed away in New Delhi on Saturday morning. He was 72 years old.

Mourning his demise, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said, "Harpal Singh Bedi was a huge supporter of Indian hockey. He was immensely respected by the hockey fraternity too. During my days as a player, we would exchange many thoughts, ideas and emotions about the sport and how we can improve the game further to bring more laurels to the country. I remember him attending our training sessions whenever we were in Delhi. He was very passionate about the sport and his work. On behalf of Hockey India, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the sports journalists' community."

Who was Harpal Singh Bedi? 

• Harpal Singh Bedi was a veteran sports journalist, renowned for his extensive coverage of Indian sports over a career spanning more than four decades
• He is survived by his wife Revathi and daughter Pallavi.
  
• Bedi, the former sports editor of United News of India (UNI), was a prominent figure in Indian sports journalism. 
  
• In recent years, he held the position of consulting editor for the Statesman newspaper.
• Harpal Singh Bedi had covered eight Olympic Games and nine Asian Games among several other major international sports events. 
• He also covered all three editions of the prestigious FIH Men's Hockey World Cup held in India. He covered the quadrennial event in New Delhi in 2010, in Bhubaneswar in 2018 and the most recent one held in Bhubaneswar-Rourkela in 2023.
• Known for his wit and warmth, Bedi served as the press attaché for India’s Olympic contingent in 2012, endearing himself to both colleagues and newcomers in the media box.

 As the sports world mourns the loss of Harpal Singh Bedi, his legacy as a passionate journalist for Indian sports, particularly hockey, will endure. His contributions have left an indelible mark on sports journalism, and his memory will continue to inspire future generations.

- With inputs from agencies

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