The IPL season is on, and despite not being our national sport, cricket is still the most played and liked sport in India. Considered a second religion, no one has been left untouched by the spirit of this game. As such, it makes sense that Bollywood too wasn’t left behind, as evident by these five Bollywood films celebrating the spirit of cricket.
1. Lagaan – Once Upon A Time In India
Released in 2001, this is perhaps the best film ever to be made on cricket. The film is based in the British ruled India, where a small village decides to play a match of cricket against the British. The film was also nominated for an Oscar in the Best Film in a Foreign Language category.
2. Iqbal
Though this 2005 film is based on cricket, it highlights other social issues as well. The story of the film follows a deaf and mute village boy who is obsessed with cricket and wants to play for the Indian cricket team. Needless to say, this film is one emotional roller-coaster.
3. Chain Kulii Ki Main Kulii
This is quite an entertaining film. The film shows the story of a young orphan boy who gets a magic bat, playing with which gets him selected for the Indian cricket team.
4. Patiala House
This film starring Akshay Kumar and Anushka Sharma follows the story of an Indian boy living in England who is a fast bowler and wants to play for England’s cricket team. A major obstacle towards his dreams, however, is his disapproving father who doesn’t want him to represent the British.
Author’s Name – Tushar Nayyar
