The film Dangal, helmed by the dexterous director Nitesh Tiwari, delves into the life of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former amateur wrestler who once aspired to win gold for India. When his dreams are thwarted by familial obligations, he resolves to realize his unfulfilled ambitions vicariously through his progeny. Despite societal expectations, he focuses on his daughters, Geeta and Babita, discerning their latent talent after a serendipitous altercation with local boys. This narrative, underscored by a myriad of patriarchal challenges, unfurls with poignant intensity and comedic relief.
The rigorous training Mahavir imposes on Geeta and Babita is as grueling as it is transformative. His draconian regimen, initially met with resistance, soon gains the daughters' grudging respect and eventual fervent commitment. The film exquisitely captures their metamorphosis from reluctant participants to resolute athletes, portraying the evolution of their relationship with their father-trainer with nuanced sensitivity.
Set against the bucolic backdrop of Haryana and the competitive crucible of the National Sports Academy in Patiala, the film's cinematography, by Satyajit Pande, vividly contrasts the rustic and regimented worlds the protagonists navigate. Ballu Saluja’s adept editing ensures the narrative maintains its momentum, seamlessly transitioning between personal trials and public triumphs.
Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Mahavir Singh Phogat is nothing short of transformative. He embodies both the physical heft and emotional gravitas of the character, oscillating between an authoritative patriarch and a nurturing father. Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra, as the adult Geeta and Babita, deliver compelling performances that resonate with authenticity and resilience. Their portrayal of sibling rivalry and solidarity adds depth to the film's emotional core.
Integral to the film’s success is its soundtrack, composed by Pritam with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya. The music, a melange of rustic rhythms and rousing anthems, accentuates the film’s emotional and narrative arcs, enhancing the audience's immersion into the Phogat family's journey.
The film does not shy away from critiquing the gender biases entrenched in Indian society. Through Mahavir's unwavering belief in his daughters' potential, it challenges and deconstructs the prejudices that hinder women’s participation in sports. The narrative underscores the transformative power of education and the importance of an egalitarian ethos in achieving true empowerment.
Dangal premiered in North America on December 21, 2016, before its global release on December 23, where it garnered universal critical acclaim. Its authentic portrayal of a real-life story, coupled with Aamir Khan's powerful performance, captivated audiences worldwide. The film was screened at prestigious festivals, including the Beijing International Film Festival and the BRICS festival, earning accolades and fostering cross-cultural dialogues.
Financially, Dangal was a juggernaut, grossing over $340 million globally, setting several box office records. It became the highest-grossing Hindi film and Indian film of its time, even breaking into the top ranks of non-English and sports films globally. Its monumental success in China, where it grossed $216.2 million, underscores the film's universal appeal and its capacity to transcend cultural boundaries.
In summary, Dangal is not merely a film but a resonant narrative of tenacity, challenging societal norms, and the indomitable human spirit. It serves as an exemplar of how cinema can be a powerful vehicle for social change, inspiring audiences to reevaluate and transcend their preconceived notions about gender roles and capabilities.
