The much-anticipated first look of Rajkummar Rao as former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly in the biopic Dada has been unveiled, sending waves of excitement among fans. The image recreates one of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history: Ganguly's shirtless celebration on the balcony of Lord's Cricket Ground after India's historic NatWest Series victory in 2002.
Iconic Moment Recreated
The photograph shows Rajkummar Rao, shirtless and waving his jersey, mimicking Ganguly's famous gesture from the Lord's balcony. This moment is etched in the memory of cricket fans as a symbol of Ganguly's aggressive and passionate captaincy. The biopic aims to capture the journey of the 'Prince of Kolkata' from his early days to leading India to new heights.
About the Biopic
Titled Dada, the film is directed by debutant director Samrat Das and produced by a team that includes prominent names from the Indian film industry. The movie is expected to cover key milestones in Ganguly's life, including his controversial debut, his rise as captain, and the famous 2002 NatWest Series triumph. According to sources close to the production, the film will also delve into Ganguly's personal life and his relationships with teammates and mentors.
Rajkummar Rao, known for his transformative performances, underwent extensive preparation to portray Ganguly. He studied Ganguly's body language, batting style, and mannerisms to bring authenticity to the role. In a statement, Rao said, "Playing Sourav Ganguly is a huge responsibility. He is a legend, and I want to do justice to his story. The shirtless scene is just the beginning; there is much more to his journey that we will showcase."
Fan Reactions
The first look has generated massive buzz on social media, with fans praising Rao's resemblance to Ganguly. Many have commented on the attention to detail, from the hairstyle to the physique. The film is scheduled for release in 2026, and the team is currently shooting key sequences across various locations in India and abroad.
As the project progresses, more details about the cast and crew are expected to be revealed. The biopic is poised to be a tribute to one of India's most successful cricket captains, whose legacy continues to inspire millions.
