BOMBAY TIMES (June 20, 2022)

With the call of ‘Nazariya badlo, khel badal gaya’, Viacom18 Studios production’s Shabaash Mithu’s trailer will be unveiled today. The film, headlined by Taapsee Pannu, is based on the life and career of Mithali Raj, the decorated former skipper of the Indian women’s cricket team, who recently announced her retirement from a career spanning 23 years over which she has captained the team in four World Cups and scored over 10,000 runs in ODIs.

Taapsee says, “It has been an honour and a milestone for my career to play such a strong, determined and powerful icon. It’s a film very close to my heart, as personally, I’m a fan! It has been a hyperbolic learning experience, and I’ve now nailed down one more sport.”

The film, produced by a studio that has previously made hits like Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Kahaani, Queen, Mary Kom and Andhadhun, promises to show how women’s cricket is treated in a country obsessed with the game. Unfortunately, even today, with exemplary cricketers like Mithali leading the charge in women’s cricket, people are dismissive of young girls wanting to take up the sport. The film showcases the story of the legendary player, who not only changed the game but also inspired billions of young girls and women. The trailer teases the audience with a sneak peek into the compelling journey of the ace cricketer.

Ajit Andhare, COO, Viacom18 Studios, says, “Women’s contributions in various fields go relatively unrecognized by society and nowhere is this more apparent than cricket. Our girls have been shining globally for a decade, but in India, our society is yet to recognize their achievements. This story that’s been in the making for four years will inspire every girl to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Riding on the capable shoulders of Mithali, this story is a shining example of what determined Indian women can achieve. We are excited to bring it to the silver screen.”

Mithali Raj shares, “I’m looking forward to Shabaash Mithu and I hope it reaches every home and every little girl’s heart, so that she too can follow her dreams just like I did.”

The film, directed by five-time National Award-winning filmmaker Srijit Mukherji, releases on July 15.