5 Hindi biographical sports films to watch ahead of Amitabh Bachchan’s Jhund

There is neither a shortage of outstanding sportspersons in India nor a dearth of films chronicling their journeys. The latest one on the block is the Amitabh Bachchan starrer Jhund, based on the life of Slum Soccer founder Vijay Barse. This Nagraj Manjule film will join the ranks of many outstanding biographical sports films that have left a mark in Bollywood. If you love biographical sports dramas, you should not miss out on these.

Paan Singh Tomar (Netflix, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Apple TV)

Starring the legendary Irrfan Khan, this film chronicles the life of Paan Singh Tomar, a steeple chase runner who eventually turned to a life of crime. The actor gave a monumental performance in this 2012 biographical sports film and bagged many prestigious awards. Irrfan effortlessly portrays the integrity of a sportsperson while showcasing the murky traits of a dacoit. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, Paan Singh Tomar, this movie about a celebrated runner turned rebel dacoit is unmissable.

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (Disney+ Hotstar)

Farhan Akhtar essays the role of the legendary runner and Olympian Milkha Singh in this Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra film. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag gives the audience insight into Milkha’s awe-inspiring story, rife with hardships and adversity. From his childhood memories of escaping a newly formed Pakistan to being named ‘The Flying Sikh’ by Jawaharlal Nehru, the film takes us through every critical moment in the athlete’s life.

Dangal (Netflix, Apple TV)

Based on the lives of sisters and wrestlers Geeta and Babita Phogat, Dangal is a sports film that elicits pride and joy. It tells the compelling tale of the Phogat sisters and their father, Mahavir Singh Phogat (the perfectionist, Aamir Khan), who trained them to be the sports sensations they are today. The film, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, also features Fatima Sana Shaikh, Sanya Malhotra, Zaira Wasim, and Suhani Bhatnagar.

Saand Ki Aankh (ZEE5, Vi Movies and TV)

Saand ki Aankh tells the intriguing tale of sharpshooters Chandro and Prakashi Tomar, played by Bhumi Pednekar and Taapsee Pannu, respectively. The film is a celebration of the two athletes who became legends in the world of sharpshooting. It also broke barriers, inspiring women all around the country to pursue their dreams. Saandh Ki Aankh is a wholesome film, perfect for a family movie night.

Soorma (Netflix, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube)

Starring Punjabi music sensation Diljit Dosanjh, Soorma is based on the life of the former captain of the Indian national hockey team, Sandeep Singh. Dosanjh shines in this biographical sports drama, embracing the nuances of the sport and the man. The film received much critical acclaim and continues to be a fan-favourite.

Has your favourite sports biographical film made it to the list? Tell us in the comments.