The film “Maidaan” has captured the hearts of its audience, reaffirming the enduring legacy of S.A. Rahim as a hero of Indian football. The audience’s reaction was nothing short of electric, with each goal scored by Indian players on screen met with thunderous cheers and applause. When Rahim emerged victorious in his political battle within the federation and was reinstated as coach, the audience rose to their feet in a spontaneous display of admiration. It was evident that Rahim’s status as a hero still resonates deeply in Hyderabad. As the credits rolled and the real Rahim’s photo graced the screen, the entire hall erupted into a crescendo of applause, a fitting tribute to a football legend.
At a time when Indian football is grappling with challenges, with a dismal FIFA world ranking of 121 and recent losses to teams like Afghanistan, “Maidaan” arrives as a beacon of hope, transporting viewers back to the glory days of Indian football. The film pays homage to the historic achievements of Rahim and his team of talented and determined players who defied the odds to propel India to the forefront of international football in the 1950s and 1960s. India’s impressive fourth-place finish in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics and two gold medals in the Asian Games stand as testament to Rahim’s unparalleled contributions to Indian football.
The architect of this remarkable resurgence was Syed Abdul Rahim, a humble school teacher from Hyderabad. Despite limited resources, Rahim relied on his unwavering patriotism and tactical acumen to outmaneuver better-equipped opponents. His impact on Indian sports is unparalleled, and the accolades bestowed upon him, both in literature and now in cinema, are richly deserved. If anything, he merits even greater recognition for his unparalleled contributions to Indian football.
While “Maidaan” may take some creative liberties to enhance its dramatic appeal, the film’s portrayal of Rahim’s commitment and dedication rings true. Victor Amalraj, former captain of India and veteran of Kolkata’s elite football clubs, lauds the film for its faithful depiction of Rahim’s legacy. Amalraj reminisces about the days spent with legends like Peter Thangaraj, P.K. Banerjee, and Chuni Goswami, praising Ajay Devgn’s portrayal of Rahim and the film’s overall authenticity.
In addition to Devgn’s stellar performance, the film features Priyamani as Saira Rahim, Gajraj Rao as a villainous newspaper editor, and Rudranil Ghosh as Rahim’s loyal companion Subhankar. Despite its lengthy runtime of 181 minutes, “Maidaan” never loses momentum, captivating audiences from start to finish. It stands among the finest sports-themed films produced in India, alongside classics like “Lagaan,” “Dangal,” “Chak De India,” “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag,” and “83.”
“Maidaan” not only celebrates the indomitable spirit of Indian football but also pays tribute to the unsung heroes like Rahim who paved the way for its success. As audiences continue to flock to theaters to witness the magic of “Maidaan,” the film serves as a poignant reminder of the power of sport to inspire and unite.
