The long-awaited sports drama “Maidaan” is slated for release on April 10, a moment that carries particular significance for the film’s cast and crew, who have weathered a series of unexpected delays. Lead actress Priyamani, who stars alongside Ajay Devgn, shared her excitement and relief tinged with humor as the announcement was made. Director Amit R Sharma, half in jest, declared, “It’s releasing on this date, else I will change my name.” Priyamani couldn’t help but laugh, saying she took it up as a challenge.
“Maidaan,” a cinematic portrayal set in the 1950s, highlights a pivotal era in Indian football, with Ajay Devgn portraying the legendary football coach and manager Syed Abdul Rahim. Priyamani steps into the role of Rahim’s wife, serving as the emotional bedrock and support system for her husband’s lofty aspirations and career.
For Priyamani, the importance of her character is not merely symbolic. “The makers presented my character just as they had promised,” she explains, adding that her on-screen presence is integral to the film’s narrative and not just to establish familial ties. This commitment to her role’s depth was a reassurance she sought from the filmmakers, who affirmed her scenes remained untouched and her role’s importance within the storyline.
Working with Ajay Devgn was a milestone for Priyamani, who has long admired his craft. She lauds his performance in “Maidaan,” acknowledging his profound impact on the film. The admiration is mutual; off-camera, Devgn showed a keen interest in the South Indian film industry, discussing its inner workings with Priyamani, who has extensive experience in that realm.
Moreover, Priyamani has had the distinct opportunity to work with two titans of the Hindi film industry—Ajay Devgn and Shah Rukh Khan, the latter in the upcoming feature “Jawan” (2023). Her encounters with these megastars provided unique insights into their approach to character development and storytelling. While “Maidaan” demanded a more serious ambiance on set, moments with Shah Rukh Khan revealed a lighter side as they would gather and unwind with music sessions, showcasing the camaraderie and off-screen bond between the cast members.
The National Award-winning actress has enjoyed a surge in popularity among Hindi-speaking audiences since her acclaimed performance in “The Family Man,” complementing her already established fan base in South India. She expresses deep gratitude for her recognition and the ability to tackle varied roles in the industry.
“Maidaan” represents a significant project for Priyamani on multiple levels: it’s an opportunity to delve into a historical period of Indian sports, to portray a character of substance and to collaborate with top talent in the industry. Her enthusiasm for the film is palpable as the release date approaches, marking the culmination of the team’s hard work and perseverance through the delays.
The film industry and audiences alike anticipate the release of “Maidaan,” not just as a celebration of Indian football’s rich heritage but also as a testament to the indomitable spirit of storytelling that connects and inspires across generations. With the promise of authentic character portrayals and an emotive narrative, “Maidaan” is set to score not only on the fields of Indian cinema but in the hearts of moviegoers.
