What Made 'Dangal' a Worldwide Highest Grossing Bollywood Movie? - An Honest Movie Review

A capsule of man’s desire, and dreams backed by dedication, determination, and devotion in a disciplined way – DANGAL (wrestling championship). A biography of a common man with a passion for doing something for his country to repay the debt he owed to his Motherland.

Passion, The Inspirational Phogat Family, Success requires Sacrifice, dedication, consistency, love for the nation, obsession, Delhi Commonwealth Games 2010, conspiracy by Wrestling Coach of NSA(Patiala)
Source - Wikipedia

The theme of the movie is exceptional where the Girl Power quells male chauvinism and makes a mark for ourselves. 

A perfect plot, and an apt story portrayed and directed by Mr Perfectionist, Aamir Khan.

Let us look at the basic information of the movie.

Directed by 

Nitesh Tiwari

Produced by

Aamir Khan

 

Kiran Rao

 

Siddharth Roy Kapur

Written by

Nitesh Tiwari

 

Piyush Gupta

 

Shreyas Jain

Starring 

Aamir Khan

 

Sakshi Tanwar

 

Fatima Sana Sheikh

 

Zaira Wasim

 

Sanya Malhotra

 

Suhani Bhatnagar

 

Aparshakti Khurana

 

Girish Kulkarni


Narrated by

Aparshakti Khurana

Production Co.

Aamir Khan Productions

 

UTV Motion Pictures

 

Walt Disney Productions

Distributed by

Walt Disney Studios

Release Date

21 Dec 2016 (US)

 

23 Dec 2016 (India)

Running Time

161 min

Language

Hindi, Haryanvi

Budget 

 ₹70 crore


Plot Overview

Dangal” is based on the true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, an amateur wrestler and national champion who was asked by his father to give up wrestling for gainful employment, and his daughters, Geeta and Babita, who went on to become wrestling champions in a male-dominated sport. 

Breaking Gender Stereotypes

The film portrays the challenges and sacrifices faced by the Phogat family as they defy societal norms and gender stereotypes to make a mark in the world of wrestling.

The movie begins with Mahavir Singh Phogat. His hopes get lit when his elder daughters Geeta and Babita come home, beating up two boys in response to derogatory responses. 

Mahavir saw a silver lining behind the dark clouds and started their training with harsh methods. The phrase, ‘Mhari Chhoriyan Chorron se kam hai ke?’ clearly signifies that Mahavir was fully confident about his daughters’ potential. 

Through hard work, zeal and zest, enthusiasm, loyalty, devotion, and determination, and with constant guidance from her father, Geeta makes her way to the much-awaited Commonwealth Games 2010 Finale.

The film beautifully showcases how Geeta and Babita, played by Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra, respectively, shatter these stereotypes and pave the way for future generations.

The film doesn't just focus on their physical transformation; it delves into their emotional and mental growth as well. It addresses the inner turmoil of these young women as they grapple with societal expectations, family pressures, and aspirations. 

Their struggles resonate with audiences across the globe, encouraging them to pursue their dreams without fear.

The Power of Determination

On the day of the final bout between India’s Geeta Kumari Phogat and Australia’s Emily Bensted, Geeta’s father Mahavir was locked in a room as a conspiracy by Mr. Pramod (Geeta and Babita’s wrestling coach in National Sports Authority, Patiala).

Not seeing her father, Geeta was petrified and perplexed but she was reminded of the fact by Mr Phogat – ‘Your father will not be present everywhere to protect you. I have taught you how to fight, but you have to fight for yourself!’

She also recalled her father’s golden words, ‘If you win silver, then you will be forgotten one day or the other. But if you win gold, it will be an inspiration for all those girls who have been impelled in the household chores and not been considered at par with men.’

The journey of Geeta and Babita from reluctant trainees to world-class wrestlers is a testament to the power of relentless hard work and self-belief. The film depicts the physical and emotional struggles they face, showcasing the toll that rigorous training takes on their bodies and minds. 

This portrayal of the sweat, tears, and sacrifices behind their success makes their victories all the more inspiring.

Impossible Itself Says - I’m Possible

Inspirations are remembered—not forgotten. In the last few seconds of the final bout at the Commonwealth Games 2010, Geeta wins Gold (6-5) as a result of 5 5-pointer move, according to Mr Phogat, ‘ It is difficult to use the 5-pointer move, but it is possible. 

Mr Phogat once said – ‘All you have to do is to play brain games with the opponent. The move is to be shown something but the actual move to be played is something else.’

Eventually, Mr Phogat turned in tears when he listened to the Indian National Anthem- Jana Gana Mana, being played and to see his daughter Geeta standing on the podium with the International Gold medal, which he had yearned and desired all his life.

Empowerment Through Sports

‘Dangal’ beautifully captures the essence of sports as a tool for empowerment. Through rigorous training, discipline, and the will to succeed, the film showcases how sports can transform lives, instil confidence and shatter the glass ceiling or prejudice against women. 

The achievements of Geeta and Babita on the wrestling mat mirror their triumphs in their personal lives. This message extends beyond wrestling, serving as an inspiration for anyone who aspires to excel in their chosen field, despite all odds!

A Father's Unwavering Belief

The heart of "Dangal" lies in the relationship between Mahavir Singh Phogat, portrayed brilliantly by Aamir Khan, and his daughters. 

His unwavering belief in their potential is a beacon of hope for other parents to emulate. Mahavir challenges the conventional wisdom of his time and demonstrates that gender should never be a limitation to achieving greatness. 

His character encapsulates the essence of a loving father who recognizes the dreams of his children, regardless of their gender.

Universal Appeal

The director has given liberty to his characters to bring to the fore their latent talent. Simultaneously, he has seriously punctuated humour and laughter. He had tried to connect people from all walks of life.

While rooted in Indian culture and traditions, the film's themes of perseverance, determination, and breaking barriers resonate with audiences across the globe.

It is a story that speaks to the human desire to rise above limitations, and it sparks conversations about gender equality, filial bonds, and the pursuit of dreams.

Final Thoughts

Based on a true story, ‘Dangal’ is a cinematic gem that transcends borders, cultures, and languages, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of global audiences. This movie gives a glimmer of hope and inspiration - shatters those boundaries and propels the human spirit to soar higher.

‘Dangal’ leaves us with a profound sense of inspiration and the belief that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. Try, try …till you succeed and the sky is the limit. Always aim for the ‘Moon’-- ‘Stars’ will automatically fall into your lap.

Mahavir Singh’s efforts echo noble laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore’s famous song- 

Jodi kue kotha na koe,
ore o re o obaghaga, keu kotha na koe
Jodi sobai thake muhk phirae , sobai kore bhoye,
Tobe poran khule,
O tui, mukh phute tor moner kotha,
Ekla bolo re

If no one talks to you,
O my unlucky friend, if no one speaks to you,
If everyone looks the other way and everyone is afraid,
Then bare your soul and let out what is in your mind,
(be not afraid) Speak alone, my friend.                                                                           

Written by -  Presha  Khurana

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