Krishan B Pathak

About Krishan B Pathak

“Hockey gave me purpose when life felt uncertain. It became my way forward, my way of honouring everything my parents worked for.”

Born on April 24, 1997 in Kapurthala, Punjab, Krishan B Pathak didn’t just choose hockey, it chose him. Losing his mother in 2007 and his father in 2016, Krishan faced challenges that could have stopped anyone in their tracks. But for him, these hardships became a reason to push harder and find meaning in a sport that demanded discipline and heart.

As a child, Krishan’s parents were hesitant to let him play hockey as they never understood the game themselves. But at age 12, Krishan was ready to join the Surjit Hockey Academy in Jalandhar, where he built the skills that would later make him one of India’s most dependable goalkeepers. Hockey wasn’t just a sport for him, it became a way to find purpose, to create a future he could be proud of.

In 2016, Krishan made his mark as part of the Indian junior team that won gold at the Men’s Hockey Junior World Cup in Lucknow. The victory was more than just a medal, it was his first big step toward fulfilling his dreams. His performances earned him a call to the senior team in 2018, during a four-nation invitational tournament in New Zealand.

From there, Krishan’s career gained momentum. He proved himself at the 2018 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, and later that year, he played a vital role in India’s silver medal finish at the Men’s Hockey Champions Trophy in Breda. These moments showcased his ability to stay calm and composed under pressure, earning him the trust of his teammates and coaches.

His defining moment came at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where India claimed its first Olympic hockey medal in 41 years – a historic bronze. Krishan’s role as a steady presence in goal was crucial to this success. He carried that form forward to help India secures a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games and a silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

In recognition of his contributions to Indian hockey, Krishan was honoured with the prestigious Arjuna Award in January 2024.

As part of the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers in the Hockey India League, Krishan brings his sharp instincts to the team. His calm presence in goal and ability to deliver under pressure make him an asset not just for the Lancers but for the future of Indian hockey as a whole.

Krishan’s story isn’t one of instant success but of steady growth, commitment, and the quiet confidence that defines true professionals. Every save, every game, is a nod to the boy from Kapurthala who refused to give up on his dreams. For Krishan B Pathak, hockey isn’t just about winning, it’s about commitment, honouring his roots, and inspiring others to dream big.