Debutant director Omung Kumar's film, Mary Kom, with Priyanka Chopra in the lead, that celebrates the never-say-die spirit of the five-time World Amateur Boxing Champion, has found appreciation among the sports fraternity.

Says ace badminton player Saina Nehwal, “Mary Kom is an emotional joyride. As a sportsperson myself, her journey resonated with me.“

Former national hockey captain Sandeep Singh states, “It's a poignant film that presents Mary's life as an inspiration for every Indian.“ Archer Deepika Kumari admits, “Priyanka's portrayal of Mary Kom has won me over. I felt everything - her joy, her anguish and her triumph while watching the film.“ In the same vein, India's top trap shooter, Ronjan Sodhi enthuses, “Watching Mary's life unveil on the big screen was interesting. Priyanka's immersive performance was the soul of the movie.“

What makes the biopic special is that it sends across a strong message.As footballer Baichung Bhutia puts it, “The film teaches us that we can achieve anything we want, even when the odds are against us.“

Other famous personalities who are impressed with the movie are Shashi Tharoor and Naveen Jindal. Tharoor says, “I'm not a fan of boxing, but I liked the film as it's the story of a woman's courage and her commitment to the sport. And Priyanka has reincarnated the character beautifully.“ Jindal adds, “It's a truly inspirational movie.“

Mary Kom, produced by Viacom18 Motion Pictures and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, releases today.