Nachhattar Chandi, the President and CEO of Chandi Group U.S., has been appointed as the chairman of the Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF). This announcement was made in April 2023, following the resignation of Harold Matzner, who had held the position since 2000.
Chandi currently oversees the Palm Springs International Film Society and is preparing for the upcoming PSIFF, scheduled to take place from January 4 to 15, 2024. As an Indian American entrepreneur who owns and manages more than 30 businesses across the Coachella Valley and California, Chandi expressed his commitment to preserving the festival’s legacy, emphasizing its importance to the local community.
After immigrating from India at the age of 20, Chandi embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the United States in 1991. He began working at a gas station and eventually became its owner within three years. In 1997, he established the Chandi Group and has since served as its President and CEO for the past 26 years. The group currently possesses numerous properties and businesses throughout California, providing vital services to underserved communities and employing around 550 individuals.
Chandi’s accomplishments have earned him several accolades, such as the Large Business of the Year Award, Community Champion Award, Top Fuel Volume Award, American Dream Award, and Patriot Award. Additionally, he serves as a board director at Pepperdine University. Matzner, the former chairman, spoke highly of Chandi, describing him as a successful and influential leader, and expressing gratitude for his willingness to take on this role within the festival.
