The filming of the highly anticipated biopic on former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, titled 'Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story', has now moved to Kolkata after the makers completed an initial shooting schedule in Mumbai. Actor Rajkummar Rao, who portrays Ganguly, recently arrived in the city and has commenced shooting at several iconic locations closely tied to Ganguly's early life and cricketing career. The Kolkata leg of the shoot is expected to continue for approximately 15 days.
First Phase Focuses on Formative Years
According to reports from India Today, the first phase of filming concentrates on Ganguly's formative years, tracing his rise from the streets of Behala to becoming one of Indian cricket's most celebrated captains. Shooting reportedly began at Ganguly's residence in Behala, where scenes depicting his childhood and family life are being recreated. The production later moved to Kolkata's Maidan and the East Bengal Club grounds, where elaborate sets were built to recreate the period when Ganguly played for Aryan Club during his early cricketing days. Rajkummar Rao was spotted filming sequences in a red tracksuit while portraying the young 'Dada'.
Eden Gardens Shoot Finally Begins
With the IPL season at Eden Gardens concluding recently, the production finally gained access to the iconic stadium for important scenes from Ganguly's cricket career. The makers are reportedly recreating some of the most memorable moments from his journey, including the famous Lord's shirt-waving celebration that became one of the defining visuals of Indian cricket. Apart from Eden Gardens, filming is also taking place at the Dukhiram Cricket Coaching Centre situated beneath the Aryan Club premises.
Sourav Ganguly Joins Portions of the Shoot
According to reports, Sourav Ganguly himself was present during parts of the filming schedule at both his Behala residence and Eden Gardens. The former cricketer has reportedly been closely involved with the project as the makers attempt to authentically recreate different stages of his life. The film is expected to chronicle not just his cricketing success, but also his personal journey and struggles before becoming one of India's most influential sporting figures.
Srija Bhattacharya to Play Young Dona
The biopic will also feature Srija Bhattacharya in the role of young Dona Ganguly. The young actor, who is reportedly a Class 7 student from Sonarpur, has been associated with acting since childhood.
Rajkummar Rao Finally Steps into 'Dada's' Shoes
For years, speculation surrounded who would portray Sourav Ganguly on screen, with several Bollywood names reportedly being considered for the role. At different points, actors including Ranbir Kapoor were linked to the project. However, the makers eventually finalized Rajkummar Rao, who is widely recognized for his versatility and transformative performances. The film continues to shoot across multiple locations including Behala, Eden Gardens, East Bengal Club, Aryan Club, and Kolkata Maidan as the makers recreate the many chapters of Ganguly's remarkable journey from a young boy in Kolkata to one of Indian cricket's biggest icons.
