Indian sports documentaries and biopics have been capturing the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide with their riveting narratives and compelling storytelling. From tales of triumph against all odds to scandals that shook the nation, these films offer a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Join us as we explore five captivating Indian sports documentaries and biopics that promise to keep you guessing until the final whistle blows.
From investigative documentaries on cricket and corruption recently released on Netflix to the exclusive and intimate access to the world’s greatest racing competition Formula 1, you cannot miss these five sports documentaries.
I am Ali
We have a plethora of Muhammad Ali documentaries to choose from, each offering a captivating journey into his life. Whether it’s the gripping account of his legendary bout with George Foreman in “When We Were Kings,” the profound exploration of his faith and stance against the Vietnam War in “Trials of Muhammad Ali,” or the unique perspective of his opponents in “Facing Ali,” there’s something for everyone.
However, if I were to suggest just one, it would undoubtedly be “I am Ali.” This documentary shows his remarkable life, spanning from his boxing prowess to his foray into politics. What sets “I am Ali” apart is its heartfelt tribute, crafted with genuine affection. Moreover, it offers a treasure trove of audio recordings that Ali personally curated and gifted to his loved ones over the years.
While the audio clips stand out as the documentary’s highlight, every moment offers a glimpse into the iconic scenes of Ali’s career. Whenever I witness an extraordinary sporting feat, I secretly yearn for the winner to channel the graceful dance of Cassius Clay after defeating Sonny Liston—a spectacle unmatched and perhaps unparalleled in its essence.
Ladies First
“Ladies First” is a compelling documentary that chronicles the inspiring journey of Deepika Kumari, an archer hailing from a rural Indian village. Despite facing numerous challenges, Deepika’s determination and resilience takes her towards becoming a world-class athlete. Through her remarkable story, the film highlights Deepika’s spirit and her relentless pursuit of her dreams. In a sport traditionally dominated by men, Deepika’s journey serves as a powerful testament to empowerment and breaking barriers, inspiring audiences worldwide.
Roar of the Lion
“Roar of the Lion” is a captivating docuseries that recounts the triumphant return of the Chennai Super Kings team to the Indian Premier League (IPL) arena. Documenting their arduous journey back to the top after a two-year suspension, the series delves into the myriad challenges faced by the team. Through intimate interviews and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, it vividly portrays the team’s unwavering resilience, camaraderie, and sheer determination to reclaim their erstwhile glory. Ultimately, “Roar of the Lion” offers an inspiring narrative of triumph over adversity, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Chennai Super Kings.
Caught Out: Crime, Corruption and Cricket
“Caught Out: Crime, Corruption, Cricket” marks the latest venture by director Supriya Sobti Gupta, offering a groundbreaking exploration of one of cricket’s most infamous scandals from the 1990s. This documentary uncovers a pivotal chapter in the sport’s history that reverberated throughout the nation, shedding light on the shocking match-fixing scandal that rocked the core of cricket in India. With a keen eye for detail, the film exposes the dark underbelly of a once-revered sport, revealing the devastating consequences it wrought on the game’s integrity and the nation’s collective psyche. Through compelling storytelling, “Caught Out” leaves an indelible mark, prompting reflection on the profound impact of corruption and moral decay within the realm of sports.
Sons of the Soil: Jaipur Pink Panthers
Produced by BBC Studios India, “Sons of the Soil: Jaipur Pink Panthers‘ ‘ is a riveting sports docuseries that offers an inside look into the journey of the kabaddi team, Jaipur Pink Panthers, owned by Abhishek Bachchan. Over the course of five episodes, the series chronicles the team’s endeavors during the seventh season of the Pro Kabaddi League. Alongside Abhishek Bachchan, key players such as Bunty Walia, Sandeep Dhull, Amit Hooda, Deepak Hooda, Deepak Narwal, Nitin Rawal, Saurabh Mishra, Srinivas Reddy, and Nilesh Salunke are featured prominently. Directed by Alex Gale and Omkar Potdar, the series delves into the personal and professional journeys of these players throughout the 2018-19 PKL season, offering a captivating narrative of dedication, triumphs, and challenges on and off the kabaddi mat.