Image Source: Instagram/ India Forums
Following his recent sports drama “Maidaan,” Ajay Devgn is all set to return to the world of athletics on celluloid. He will be stepping onto the cricket pitch this time, but not as a fictional character. Devgn is primed to portray the inspirational Palwankar Baloo, the pioneering cricketer recognised as India’s first Dalit player.
Producer Priti Sinha revealed the news on social media in late May 2023. This biographical film promises to be more than just a chronicle of sporting achievements. It will delve into the struggles and triumphs of Baloo, a man who defied societal barriers to carve a niche for himself in the history of Indian cricket.
While an official title hasn’t been announced yet, the project reportedly draws inspiration from historian Ramchandra Guha’s book, “A Corner of a Foreign Field.” The book sheds light on the life of Baloo, a man who started his cricketing journey humbly as a groundsman at clubs in Pune. However, his talent couldn’t be contained within the confines of pitch maintenance. Baloo’s exceptional skills as a left-arm spin bowler eventually led him to Bombay (present-day Mumbai) in 1896, where he secured a place in the prestigious Hindu Gymkhana team.
Baloo’s cricketing prowess was undeniable. He rose through the ranks and even found himself selected for the all-Indian team on their 1911 tour of England. Records show that during this tour, his bowling attack proved to be a nightmare for the English batsmen, fetching him a staggering 114 wickets. Despite his on-field brilliance, Baloo’s journey was marred by the ugliness of caste discrimination. As a Dalit, he faced prejudice and social exclusion throughout his career.
This is where the biopic is expected to truly shine. It will not only showcase Baloo’s cricketing achievements but also explore the social context of the era. It will bring to light the challenges faced by Dalit communities in India and celebrate Baloo’s spirit in overcoming them.
The collaboration between Devgn and director Tigmanshu Dhulia is another exciting aspect of this project. Ajay Devgn, known for his intense screen presence and ability to portray characters with depth, seems like a perfect fit for the role of Baloo. Dhulia, with his experience in helming critically acclaimed films like “Paan Singh Tomar” and “Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster,” brings a strong understanding of portraying stories rooted in social realities.
The filming is expected to begin by the end of 2024, with a target release date sometime in 2025. This biopic has the potential to be a landmark film, not just for its subject matter but also for the team it brings together. It has the power to ignite conversations about caste, social justice, and the unwavering human spirit in the face of adversity.
The project has already garnered significant interest from audiences and critics alike. Many hail it as a much-needed portrayal of an often-overlooked chapter in Indian cricketing history. This biopic has the potential to not only entertain but also educate, inspiring a new generation to learn about Palwankar Baloo, the man who broke barriers and paved the way for Dalit inclusion in Indian cricket.
