Football-themed Bollywood movies capture the excitement and drama of the sport while highlighting personal and social issues. Here are some great films you can watch that celebrate football.

 

01. Maidaan

Maidaan tells the story of Syed Abdul Rahim, a legendary football coach in India. Ajay Devgn plays the lead role. The film shows Rahim's dedication and how he built a strong team despite many challenges. Under his leadership, the team won gold at the 1956 Olympics and silver at the Asian Games. You can rent this inspiring movie on Prime Video.

 

02. Chidiakhana

In Chidiakhana, directed by Manish Tiwary, a young boy named Sooraj moves to a Mumbai chawl with his mother. Sooraj, played by Ritvik Sahore, uses his football skills to gain acceptance in his new neighborhood. Despite facing school gangs and other challenges, Sooraj's determination helps him succeed. This film is a great story of overcoming odds.

03. Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal

Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, stars John Abraham, Arshad Warsi, Bipasha Basu, and Boman Irani. This 2007 film follows the Southall Football Club in the UK. Once a famous club, it now faces closure. A group of Asians bands together to save it. The movie highlights the spirit of community and teamwork. You can watch it on Netflix.

04. Hip Hip Hurray

Hip Hip Hurray is a 1984 sports drama written by Gulzar and directed by Prakash Jha. The story follows Sandeep Chowdhary, played by Raj Kiran, who takes a temporary job as a sports instructor. He leads a football team to victory, forming bonds along the way. This film is available on Prime Video and ZEE5.

05. Jhund

Jhund, directed by Nagraj Manjule, is a biographical film about Vijay Barse, the founder of Slum Soccer. Amitabh Bachchan stars as Barse, who transforms street kids into a football team, steering them away from crime and drugs. This inspiring story shows the power of sports to change lives. You can watch it on ZEE5.

06. Penalty

Penalty follows the journey of Lukram, a football player from Manipur, played by Lukram Smil. Facing discrimination at his university in Lucknow, Lukram struggles to make the team. Encouraged by his coach and friends, he perseveres and proves his worth. This 2019 film, directed by Shubham Singh, highlights the challenges faced by Northeastern players.

07. Sikandar

Sikandar

Sikandar, a 2009 crime drama by Piyush Jha, stars Parzan Dastur, Sanjay Suri, and R. Madhavan. Set in Kashmir, it tells the story of a young boy who finds a gun and becomes entangled in local conflicts. His passion for football is overshadowed by the turmoil around him. The film explores themes of violence and innocence.

08. The Goal

The Goal (1999) is based on a short story by Prafulla Roy and directed by Gul Bahar Singh. The movie stars Irrfan Khan as a football coach who helps a young boy named Manu. Despite facing social prejudice, Manu's talent shines through, and he gets a chance to play for a club team. This film is an inspiring tale of overcoming social barriers.

09 . Tu Hai Mera Sunday

Tu Hai Mera Sunday (2016) is a slice-of-life film directed by Milind Dhaimade. It stars Barun Sobti, Shahana Goswami, and others. The story revolves around five friends in Mumbai who find joy in playing football on Sundays. This light-hearted film shows the importance of finding happiness in simple activities.

10. The Goal

The Goal (1999) is based on a short story by Prafulla Roy and directed by Gul Bahar Singh. The movie stars Irrfan Khan as a football coach who helps a young boy named Manu. Despite facing social prejudice, Manu's talent shines through, and he gets a chance to play for a club team. This film is an inspiring tale of overcoming social barriers.