India is so focused on cricket that it’s easy to miss other sports’ rich histories. Amit Ravindernath Sharma’s recent film, “Maidaan,” illuminates a crucial Indian football chapter to fix this. Ajay Devgn plays Syed Abdul Rahim, who led the Indian football team to victory in the 1950s and 60s, in this touching tribute. “Maidaan” revives Indian football’s forgotten age and its unsung heroes with dramatic storytelling, expressive performances, and thrilling sporting sequences.
“Maidaan” begins with a touching tribute to Indian football’s golden age. The film methodically chronicles Indian football’s progress under Rahim’s leadership, capturing its spirit and hardships. Ajay Devgn plays Rahim, a chain-smoking coach who loved football and fostering discipline and unity in his team.
The film honors P.K. Banerjee, Chunni Goswami, and Tulsidas Balaram, who helped win the 1962 Asian Games gold medal. Their contributions and Rahim’s creative approaches drive the story. “Maidaan” honors the successes and explores the socio-political issues of the time, making it a complete tribute.

The film’s visual storytelling is notable. Amazing camerawork by Russian cinematographer Andrey Valantsov. The audience feels every run, tackle, and goal in his explosive pictures of football matches. The moments are enhanced by A.R. Rahman‘s throbbing background score, which adds emotion and excitement.
Film editor Shahnawaz Mosani deserves praise. Rahim’s 4-2-4 shape and strategic maneuvers are well-detailed. The editing lets non-football fans understand the game. Players’ blood, sweat, and tears make the spectators root for them every step.
“Maidaan” is about Rahim and his crew, which he carefully assembled. The film highlights Jarnail Singh, whom Rahim turned into a striker in vital matches, and goalie Peter Thangaraj, who played through injuries to win. Tejas Ravishankar, Madhur Mittal, and Aaman Munshi portray these roles with integrity.
The story covers team internal and external issues. “Maidaan” depicts the era’s intricacies without melodrama, from regional rivalry to administrative challenges. It sometimes demonizes sports administrators, making them one-dimensional opponents. A more complex characterization of these personalities could have prevented this predictability.
Advertising veteran Amit Ravindernath Sharma gives the film a sophisticated look. The time is meticulously recreated in the production design. The film’s locker rooms, stadiums, and streets are vividly depicted, making it immersive. Sharma keeps the film simple with his directorial.
A distant approach to emotional drama is a double-edged sword for the picture. It avoids overt sentimentality but misses opportunities to examine its characters’ personal life. Rahim’s illness, refusal to pick his kid for the team, and relationship with his wife (Priyamani) are briefly touched on. These elements could have deepened the story.
The film revolves around Ajay Devgn’s Syed Abdul Rahim. His passionate performance shows Rahim’s drive, resilience, and love of football. Devgn gently conveys Rahim’s psychological struggles and team loyalty with minimum language but powerful expressions. His portrayal preserves Rahim’s legacy.
“Maidaan” is worth watching for its cinematic excellence and historical significance. It revives an era of Indian football many have forgotten. The film’s well-researched storyline, superb performances, and technical elegance make it engaging. It honors India’s sporting tradition and the unsung heroes who paved the road for future generations.
“Maidaan”‘s emotional tribute to Syed Abdul Rahim and his crew redeems it. This film will encourage football fans and show how sports can unite and empower. “Maidaan” honors football’s rich history and bright future as India grows as a footballing nation.
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