New Delhi: The much-anticipated biographical film on former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has officially gone on floors, with actor Rajkummar Rao stepping into the role of the iconic cricketer. The announcement was made by the actor himself through social media, marking the beginning of what is expected to be one of the most talked-about sports biopics in Indian cinema.
Sharing glimpses from the film’s commencement, Rajkummar Rao posted images of a clapboard bearing the title “Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story”, signalling the start of production. The development has generated excitement among fans of both cricket and cinema, given Ganguly’s immense contribution to Indian cricket and Rao’s reputation for delivering nuanced performances.
Actor expresses excitement and nervousness
Rajkummar Rao acknowledged the magnitude of the responsibility that comes with portraying a figure like Sourav Ganguly, often regarded as one of India’s most influential cricket captains.
In earlier interactions, the actor admitted feeling “extremely nervous” about taking on the role, while also expressing enthusiasm for the challenge. He emphasised that portraying Ganguly’s journey would require both emotional depth and authenticity.
Rao also highlighted his efforts to prepare for the role, including working on his Bengali language skills and accent. His familiarity with the language, partly influenced by his personal life, is expected to add credibility to his portrayal of the Kolkata-born cricketer.
Ganguly backs casting choice
Sourav Ganguly himself has endorsed Rajkummar Rao’s casting, expressing confidence in the actor’s ability to do justice to his life story. The former captain stated that Rao is the “right person” for the role and assured his support throughout the filmmaking process.
Ganguly, who played international cricket between 1992 and 2008, is widely credited with transforming the Indian team into a more aggressive and confident unit. His leadership laid the foundation for India’s rise as a dominant force in world cricket, making his life story a compelling subject for a biopic.
Direction and production team
The film is being directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, known for his critically acclaimed works in Hindi cinema. His involvement has further raised expectations around the project, as he is recognised for his ability to blend storytelling with strong character development.
The production is backed by Luv Films, which has been associated with several successful projects in recent years. The collaboration between an experienced director, a talented lead actor, and a compelling real-life story positions the film as a major cinematic venture.
Story to trace Ganguly’s journey
The biopic is expected to chronicle Sourav Ganguly’s journey from his early days in Kolkata to becoming one of India’s most successful cricket captains. It will likely explore key phases of his career, including his debut, captaincy tenure, controversies, and his role in nurturing future stars of Indian cricket.
The narrative is also expected to delve into his personal life and struggles, offering audiences a comprehensive look at the man behind the legend. Given Ganguly’s influence on Indian cricket culture, the film holds the potential to resonate with a wide audience.
Release timeline and expectations
According to earlier statements by Ganguly, the film is slated for a theatrical release in December 2026. With shooting now underway, the production is expected to proceed over the coming months across multiple locations, including Kolkata, which plays a central role in Ganguly’s life story.
The announcement has already sparked discussions among fans, with many expressing excitement about seeing one of India’s most iconic cricketing figures portrayed on the big screen.
Conclusion
The beginning of filming for Sourav Ganguly’s biopic marks a significant moment for Indian cinema, bringing together sport and storytelling in a powerful way. With Rajkummar Rao leading the project and Ganguly himself closely involved, expectations are high for an authentic and engaging portrayal of one of cricket’s most influential leaders. As production progresses, audiences will be keenly watching for further updates on this highly anticipated film.