Over the past two decades, Sania Mirza has undoubtedly solidified her status as the most iconic female tennis player in India. Following in the footsteps of tennis legends Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes, Sania, along with Rohan Bopanna, has consistently kept the Indian tennis flag flying high on the global stage. Off the court, Sania’s fame has extended beyond the tennis realm, making her a household name. Given India’s love for biopics of sports stars, it’s puzzling that a film based on the life of Sania Mirza remains unmade. However, this doesn’t mean that the idea hasn’t been considered.
### Shah Rukh Khan’s Interest in a Sania Mirza Biopic
Back in 2016, the concept of a Sania Mirza biopic was thrust into the limelight when Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan launched her autobiography, “Ace Against Odds.” At the book launch, Shah Rukh Khan surprised many by expressing his interest in the project. With Sania by his side, he stated that he would be open to making a film based on her life story and even hinted at wanting to play a role in it. “Whenever there is a movie made on Sania, I think it will be very inspiring and it will be fantastic. And I don’t know… ask her if she will let me play her love interest. But, I will produce it for sure,” said the actor, adding a touch of his characteristic charm.
In a recent appearance on “The Great Indian Kapil Show” on Netflix, Sania Mirza revisited Shah Rukh Khan’s past comments. She humorously remarked, “If Shah Rukh ji does the film, I might play myself. And I’ll definitely do it if Akshay Kumar is in it.” This playful banter showcased the mutual admiration between the tennis star and the Bollywood icon, and it reignited public interest in the potential film.
### Potential Contenders for the Role of Sania Mirza
Sania has been vocal about her preferences when it comes to who should portray her on screen. Years ago, she featured on the chat show “Yaaron Ki Baraat,” hosted by Riteish Deshmukh and Sajid Khan, alongside her close friend, actress Parineeti Chopra. When asked about potential actors for a biopic on her life, Sania said, “I was asked if a biopic is made on me, who should play my role. I took Pari’s name and I had taken a couple of more names.
. I said Deepika (Padukone) and her actually. So, I jokingly stated that Deepika is busy because everyone wants her (to do a biopic).”
Deepika Padukone’s name is often mentioned due to her own sports lineage; she is the daughter of legendary badminton player Prakash Padukone. Meanwhile, Parineeti Chopra, who has often expressed her admiration for Sania, seems like a natural fit for the role. Despite the clear enthusiasm from both actresses and the backing of a Bollywood powerhouse like Shah Rukh Khan, the biopic has yet to come to fruition.
### Challenges and Delays in the Making of Sania Mirza’s Biopic
Despite significant interest and discussions, the film remains unmade. In 2018, there were rumors that director Rohit Shetty, known for his blockbuster films, would helm the project. However, nothing concrete emerged from these discussions. In an interview with IANS, Sania candidly addressed the situation. “There’s obviously been a lot of talk going on and in the pipeline. But there’s nothing official yet,” she stated.
Reports suggest that Sania Mirza has been particular about wanting a combination of a stellar director and a suitable lead actress to tell her story. While the right mix of talent has yet to be assembled, the anticipation and speculation surrounding the biopic continue to grow.
### Disappointment for Fans
The lack of a biopic on Sania Mirza is indeed a glaring omission in India’s rich tapestry of sports films. Fans of Sania and the sport of tennis continue to hold out hope that one day, the inspiring story of this trailblazing athlete will be immortalized on the big screen. Until then, the discussions, teasers, and speculative casting remain a tantalizing glimpse of what could be.
### Conclusion
The intersection of Bollywood and sports has often resulted in gripping, inspirational films. Sania Mirza’s life story, filled with triumph, challenges, and perseverance, certainly possesses all the elements of a blockbuster biopic. As stakeholders deliberate and audiences wait in anticipation, the prospect of a Sania Mirza biopic continues to linger tantalizingly on the horizon, promising to be a cinematic celebration of one of India’s greatest sporting icons.
