Maidaan, the much-anticipated sports drama starring Ajay Devgn, kicked off its theatrical run on April 10, 2024. The film delves into the life of Syed Abdul Rahim, the legendary football coach who led India to victory with two gold medals between 1952 and 1962.
Amidst comparisons to the iconic sports drama Chak De! India, director Amit Ravindernath Sharma emphasized the distinctiveness of Maidaan. He clarified that while both films involve coaches and players, Maidaan is not a sports biopic; rather, it’s an emotional journey centered around Abdul Rahim, with football serving as the medium.
On its opening day, Maidaan minted ₹2.72 crore at the domestic box office. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics appreciating its portrayal of Indian football’s golden era, while others found it lacking in depth compared to Chak De! India2. Despite the varied opinions, Maidaan stands as a testament to the remarkable legacy of a man who shaped Indian football history.