Written by Noaman Khan:
Maidaan is a captivating sports drama that vividly depicts the significant moments in Indian football history under the leadership of Coach Syed Abdul Rahim, widely recognized as the architect of Indian football. Ajay Devgan brilliantly portrays the titular character, bringing depth and nuance to Rahim’s inspiring journey. Skillfully directed by Amit Ravindernath, the film takes audiences on an emotional rollercoaster, capturing the Indian national football team’s trials and triumphs, from their crushing defeat at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics to their triumphant victory at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta. The film’s standout feature is its electrifying sports action, superbly complemented by an exhilarating background score from A.R. Rahman, offering an unprecedented experience in Hindi cinema.
The movie opens with a bleak moment in Indian football history: a crushing 10-1 defeat against Yugoslavia at the 1952 Summer Olympics. This sets the stage for the narrative arc of redemption and resilience. Syed Abdul Rahim, portrayed with profound intensity, faces the ire of the All India Football Federation. Undeterred, Rahim secures permission to rebuild the team, scouting talent from across the country. This aspect of the film is particularly compelling as it showcases the diverse backgrounds of the players, uniting under Rahim’s visionary leadership.
The film’s narrative is punctuated with major events, such as the 1956 Melbourne Olympics where India astounds Australia with a 4-2 victory, and the tension-filled 1960 Rome Olympics. These segments highlight the challenges faced by Rahim, including internal politics within the federation and his personal battle with lung cancer. The screenplay effectively balances these elements, maintaining a gripping pace that keeps viewers emotionally invested.
The strength of Maidaan lies in its well-etched characters and the performances that bring them to life. The portrayal of Syed Abdul Rahim is nuanced, capturing his relentless spirit and dedication to the sport. His interactions with the players, especially moments of tough love and inspirational speeches, are among the film’s highlights. The supporting cast, including the players Tulsidas Balaram, Peter Thangaraj, P. K. Banerjee, and Chuni Goswami, add depth to the story with their authentic performances.
Roy Choudhary, an influential journalist from Calcutta, serves as an antagonist for a significant part of the film. His transformation from a critic to a supporter of Rahim’s team adds an interesting dynamic to the plot. Subhankar, another key figure within the federation, represents the bureaucratic challenges Rahim has to navigate, adding to the tension and drama.
The cinematography in Maidaan is commendable, capturing the essence of 1950s and 60s India with meticulous attention to detail. The football matches are shot with a kinetic energy that immerses the audience in the action, making the victories and defeats feel palpably real. The director skillfully juxtaposes these high-octane moments with quieter, introspective scenes that delve into Rahim’s personal struggles and his bond with his family.
At its core, Maidaan is a tribute to perseverance and the indomitable human spirit. The film delves into themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the power of unity in diversity. Rahim’s journey is not just about winning matches but about instilling a sense of pride and purpose in his players. His battle with lung cancer and his determination to coach the team to victory, despite his deteriorating health, adds a layer of poignancy that resonates deeply.
The climactic match at the 1962 Asian Games is a masterclass in building tension and emotion. The hostile environment in Jakarta, the injuries to key players, and Rahim’s failing health all converge to create a powerful narrative crescendo. The final victory is not just a win on the field but a testament to the collective strength and resilience of the team.
Maidaan beautifully echoes the spirit of CEQUIN’s Kickstart Equality initiative, where we introduce young girls from underprivileged and conservative communities to football. Much like Rahim’s efforts to build a cohesive and strong team, our program has profoundly impacted the lives of these girls, boosting their confidence, improving school retention rates, and challenging gender norms.
Just as Rahim scouted and nurtured talent from diverse backgrounds, Kickstart Equality aims to empower girls through sports, fostering leadership, decision-making skills, and enhanced social networks. The film’s message of resilience and unity is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination and support, making it a must-watch for anyone who believes in the transformative power of sports and equality.
Watching Maidaan is not just an experience of reliving a glorious chapter of Indian sports history; it’s an affirmation of the positive change that organizations like CEQUIN strive to bring about. It underscores the importance of perseverance, vision, and the collective effort needed to overcome challenges, making it an inspiring watch for all.
