Amit Sharma’s “Maidaan” is a direct shot at sporting success, immortalizing an age when Indian football reigned supreme. This biographical film, set in the 1950s and 1960s, honours the unsung hero Syed Abdul Rahim, India’s finest football coach and manager. The Indian team got the nickname “Brazilians of Asia” due to their sweat, blood, and passion on the field during this golden age. Legends like Chuni Goswami, P. K. Banerjee, and Jarnail Singh won gold medals at the 1951 and 1962 Asian Games. But “Maidaan” focuses on Rahim (Ajay Devgn), the mastermind behind their achievement.
Rahim gives a passionate speech to his teammates before the final match of the 1962 Asian Games versus South Korea. He underlines that even though there are 11 players on the field, they are essentially “one” squad. This emotion is mirrored in the film, where every cast member, crew, and element adds to the collective magic.
Amit Ravindernath Sharma, the director, builds a gripping narrative that captures the essence of the era without losing sight of storytelling. The film’s narrative by Saiwyn Quadras, photography by Tushar Kanti Ray, and score by AR Rahman elevate it. The sports directors of photography—Fyodor Lyass, Tassaduq Hussain, and Christopher Reed—recreate the dramatic final match, keeping viewers on edge.
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Ajay Devgn delivers a remarkable performance as Rahim, capturing the coach’s quiet dignity and unwavering drive. Rahim is portrayed as larger-than-life, even in his most quiet moments. Priyamani, as Rahim’s wife Saira, gives an outstanding performance that adds emotional depth to the story. Rahim’s path is about more than just football; it’s about navigating politics within the football federation and overcoming influential critics. Gajraj Rao, as sports journalist Roy Choudhary, provides a fascinating counterpoint to Rahim’s worldview.
“Maidaan” is a gem for Indian sports cinema. It honours not only the troubled Indian football squad, but also Rahim—the tactician, reformer, and belief in India’s football future. As the credits roll, you’ll celebrate, contemplate, and recognize the value of teamwork.