Crafted by Bollywood — which has given us Lagaan, Chak de India, Gold and Dangal — Maidaan fills a void with its celebration of football, a game that had yet to find its way on to this grand a stage. Films such as Jhund, Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal and Sikander touched the surface. None until now had delved deep into the golden days of Indian football.
Imagine millions awakening to the tales of the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where India stood a breath away from a medal, or the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta, where gold was not just won but claimed by right. Maidaan brings to life the legends of S.K. Rahim, the coach of that team. It grants a deserved resurrection of the central characters in that mission, like PK Banerjee, Chuni Goswami, Tulsidas Balaram, Jarnail Singh, Peter Thangraj — the heroes whose stories had faded. The film’s closing credits, a homage to some of these champions in real-life footage, is a moment of profound emotional resonance.
Maidaan immortalises the sweat, tears, and triumphs of India’s footballers from the 1950s and 60s through the story of Rahim. It promises to kindle a fiery passion for football in the hearts of the youth, instilling pride and rekindling interest in a sport that has been eclipsed by cricket’s colossal presence in India.
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Grand opening of #Maidaan! A film that resonates the story of an unsung hero of Indian football, Syed Abdul Rahim, the coach who led India to Asian Glory.
We celebrate team Maidaan as we do, let’s listen to their story of making the film and the experiences the crew gathered in… pic.twitter.com/oKwzVCOlMx
— RevSportz (@RevSportz) April 10, 2024
This film challenges the misconception that India lacks a formidable football heritage. By holding the spotlight on the nation’s historical feats on the international stage, Maidaan asserts the potential for greatness in Indian football. Who knows, it may also inspire a re-evaluation of what the sport means to the country. The enthusiasm could beckon the attention of government bodies and corporate sponsors toward the untapped potential within Indian football. This could catalyse a surge in support and opportunities.
Maidaan is a heartfelt ode to a passionate coach and bygone era when Indian football was on top in Asia and capable of catching teams from other continents by surprise. It is a narrative that captures the spirit, struggle, and the glory of the golden era of Indian football, masterfully portrayed on the silver screen. This film is not just a viewing experience; it’s an emotional journey that promises to connect with the hearts of its audience.
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