Cricket in India is more than just a sport; it’s a unifying force that transcends regional, linguistic, and cultural boundaries. From bustling urban centers to remote villages, the game is a shared passion that brings together millions of fans.
The fervor for cricket is so profound that it permeates daily life, influencing conversations, celebrations, and even national identity. This can only be compared to the passion for betting, because no betting fan in India will miss the opportunity to read the next 1Win bet review to learn about new opportunities for betting on their favorite sport.
Given this deep-rooted enthusiasm, it’s no surprise that numerous documentaries have been produced to capture the essence of cricket in India. These films delve into the game’s impact on society, the personal journeys of players, and the unwavering devotion of fans. This article highlights some of the most compelling Indian cricket documentaries that every enthusiast should watch.
Beyond All Boundaries (2013)
Directed by Sushrut Jain, “Beyond All Boundaries” offers an intimate look into the lives of three individuals whose worlds revolve around cricket. Set against the backdrop of the 2011 Cricket World Cup, the documentary follows:
- Sudhir Kumar Chaudhary, an ardent fan of Sachin Tendulkar who attends every home match of the Indian team.
- Akshaya Surwe, a young woman from Mumbai aspiring to join the Indian Women’s National Cricket Team.
- Prithvi Shaw, a 12-year-old cricket prodigy dealing with personal loss and carrying his father’s hopes.
Narrated by Kunal Nayyar, the film delves into how cricket serves as a beacon of hope and ambition for these individuals. It portrays the sport’s profound influence on their lives, reflecting broader societal themes in India. The documentary was well-received, winning the grand jury prize for Best Documentary and the audience award at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles in 2013.
Roar of the Lion (2019)
“Roar of the Lion” is a five-episode docuseries that chronicles the dramatic comeback of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL) after a two-year suspension due to a spot-fixing scandal. Produced by Kabir Khan and featuring MS Dhoni, the series provides a candid look at the challenges faced by the team during their hiatus and their triumphant return to the league.
Dhoni shares personal insights into the turmoil surrounding the scandal and the emotional journey of leading CSK back to glory. The documentary also highlights the unwavering support of CSK fans and the team’s resilience in overcoming adversity. “Roar of the Lion” is available for streaming on Hotstar.
Sachin: A Billion Dreams (2017)
Directed by James Erskine, “Sachin: A Billion Dreams” is a biographical documentary that traces the life and career of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. The film combines archival footage, personal interviews, and dramatized sequences to depict Tendulkar’s journey from a young boy with a dream to becoming one of the greatest cricketers in history. It offers an in-depth look at his personal and professional milestones, including his debut at the age of 16, his role in India’s 2011 World Cup victory, and his retirement.
The documentary also explores Tendulkar’s influence on Indian society and the immense expectations placed upon him by a cricket-crazy nation. With music composed by A.R. Rahman, the film provides a comprehensive portrayal of a sports icon whose impact transcends the game.
Cricket Fever: Mumbai Indians (2019)
“Cricket Fever: Mumbai Indians” is an eight-part Netflix docuseries that offers unprecedented access to the Mumbai Indians’ 2018 IPL season. The series provides a behind-the-scenes look at the team’s preparations, strategies, and the pressures faced by players and management. It features candid moments with team owner Akash Ambani, coach Mahela Jayawardene, and star players like Rohit Sharma.
The documentary captures the highs and lows of the season, including injuries, team dynamics, and the quest for another championship. Critics have praised the series for its engaging storytelling and the insight it offers into the workings of a professional cricket team. “Cricket Fever: Mumbai Indians” is available for streaming on Netflix.
Death of a Gentleman (2015)
“Death of a Gentleman” is a thought-provoking documentary that examines the governance of international cricket and the influence of powerful cricket boards. Directed by Sam Collins and Jarrod Kimber, the film investigates the control exerted by the ‘Big Three’—the cricket boards of India, England, and Australia—over the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Through interviews with key figures like Giles Clarke, N Srinivasan, and Ed Cowan, the documentary explores how financial interests and power dynamics impact the game’s integrity and the opportunities available to smaller cricketing nations. The film raises critical questions about the future of cricket and the need for more equitable governance. “Death of a Gentleman” received acclaim for its investigative approach and was awarded the Television Sports Documentary of the Year at the Sports Journalists’ Awards in London in 2016.
Final Thoughts
These documentaries provide a multifaceted view of cricket in India, capturing the sport’s emotional depth, cultural significance, and the challenges it faces. Whether exploring personal stories of perseverance, team dynamics, or broader governance issues, each film offers valuable insights into the game that unites a nation. For fans and newcomers alike, these documentaries are essential viewing to understand the profound impact of cricket on Indian society.
