Churchill Brothers rallied strongly to share honours with Mahindra United as the two teams settled for a 1-1 draw.
The defending champions won their opening match in the National Football League 2-1.
Three-times champions East Bengal were humbled in their opening round match at the Cooperage ground on Sunday.
The 11th edition of India's premier football league gets underway with inaugural champions JCT Mills taking on dark horses Mohammedan Sporting on Friday.