Six Must-Watch Bollywood Cricket Films That Teach Unforgettable Life Lessons

As the excitement of the Indian Premier League wanes, movie lovers will eagerly head to theaters for the highly anticipated cricket-themed film Mr. & Mrs. Mahi, starring Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor, set to release on May 31. This is the perfect time to revisit some classic Bollywood films about cricket that have imparted invaluable life lessons.

Bollywood and cricket share an extraordinary bond. There’s nothing that unites India more than cricket and cinema. Whether cheering for Shah Rukh Khan in a movie theater or celebrating India’s World Cup victories, cricket and Bollywood transcend all barriers. The emotional resonance of Sachin Tendulkar’s final match at Wankhede Stadium, where the crowd chanted “Sachin! Sachin…” or the pride felt during India’s World Cup wins in 1983 and 2011, mirrors the excitement of Lagaan‘s nomination for an Academy Award in 2002.

Let’s explore six such films, including Mr. & Mrs. Mahi, that offer profound life lessons from Bollywood’s school of wisdom.

Mr. & Mrs. Mahi

While living up to parents’ dreams might seem easy, Mr. & Mrs. Mahi turns this notion on its head. Initially, many thought the film would relate to the legendary cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, nicknamed ‘Mahi’. However, the trailer revealed a different story. It follows a young couple, Mahima and Mahendra, both nicknamed ‘Mahi’.

Mahima was content living her parents’ dream of becoming a doctor, while Mahendra pursued his father’s dream of running a family business. Fate brought them together, and cricket became their shared passion. Mahendra, a failed cricketer, and Mahima, who loved cricket as a hobby, find a new purpose through each other. This heartwarming story of mutual inspiration unfolds on May 31, directed by Sharan Sharma and produced by Karan Johar.

83

Kabir Khan’s 83 takes us back to the era when Indian cricket lacked proper infrastructure, yet a team, against all odds, clinched the 1983 Cricket World Cup. Under Kapil Dev’s captaincy, the film showcases how the Indian cricket team overcame immense obstacles to defeat the formidable West Indies.

Released in 2021, Ranveer Singh brilliantly portrays Kapil Dev, capturing not just historical cricketing moments but also the unity in diversity that the Indian team represents. The film is a testament to perseverance and teamwork.

Dil Bole Hadippa

Dil Bole Hadippa highlights the struggle for gender equality in sports. Released when women’s cricket was far from mainstream, the film stars Rani Mukherjee as Veera Kaur, a talented cricketer who disguises herself as a man to join a boys’ team.

The film sheds light on the societal barriers that women face in sports, especially in smaller towns. Veera’s journey, her eventual acceptance, and triumph in the cricket team is a powerful narrative on breaking gender stereotypes. Directed by Anurag Singh and produced by Aditya Chopra, it was released in 2009.

Iqbal

Nagesh Kukunoor’s Iqbal tells the inspiring story of a deaf and mute boy, Iqbal, who dreams of playing cricket for India. Despite societal ridicule and his father’s discouragement, Iqbal’s unwavering determination, along with support from his mentor Mohit (Naseeruddin Shah) and sister Khatija (Shweta Basu Prasad), propels him towards his dream.

Starring Shreyas Talpade, this National Award-winning film showcases that true talent and determination can overcome any obstacle, including physical disabilities. Released in 2005, Iqbal is a must-watch for its uplifting message.

Lagaan: Once Upon A Time In India

Lagaan, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and starring Aamir Khan, is a celebration of patriotism and perseverance. Set in British India, the story revolves around villagers burdened by oppressive taxes. They are challenged to a cricket match by the British, with their tax burden at stake.

Aamir Khan’s character, Bhuvan, leads the villagers in forming a cricket team and defeating the British, embodying dedication, hard work, and motivation. The film, nominated for an Academy Award in 2002, is a powerful lesson in resilience and leadership.

Patiala House

Patiala House features Akshay Kumar as Gattu, torn between his passion for cricket and his father’s patriotic sentiments. His father opposes him playing for England, but Gattu’s journey towards his dream of cricket eventually wins his father’s support.

Directed by Nikhil Advani and released in 2011, the film underscores the importance of following one’s own dreams while navigating familial expectations. It emphasizes that our destinies are our own, even when they diverge from our parents’ aspirations.

Bollywood has a unique flair for weaving sports, especially cricket, into compelling narratives. These films not only entertain but also inspire, teaching us valuable life lessons. Whether it’s about overcoming personal and societal obstacles as shown in Iqbal, standing up against injustice like in Lagaan, or breaking gender norms as in Dil Bole Hadippa, these movies highlight the core values of perseverance, courage, and unity.