Is the movie Dangal (2016) based on a true story?

Yes, the movie “Dangal” (2016) is based on a true story. It is a biographical sports drama film that tells the story of Indian wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters, Geeta and Babita Phogat, who he trained to become world-class wrestlers. Mahavir and his daughters have achieved significant success in wrestling, with Geeta becoming the first Indian female wrestler to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 2010.

What is the true story behind the movie Dangal (2016)?

The movie Dangal (2016) is based on the true story of the Phogat family from the Indian state of Haryana. The film depicts the life of former amateur wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his journey to train his daughters to become world-class wrestlers.

Mahavir Singh Phogat, played by Aamir Khan in the film, was a renowned wrestler who could not fulfill his dream of winning an international gold medal for India due to various circumstances. However, he believed that his future children could achieve this feat. After his first four children were girls, he initially felt disappointed as he believed that only boys could excel in wrestling. However, his mindset changed when his daughters Geeta and Babita beat up two boys who were harassing them.

Inspired by their display of strength, Mahavir decided to train his daughters in wrestling. He faced opposition from society, who criticized him for breaking traditional gender roles and questioning the capabilities of girls. Nevertheless, Mahavir remained determined and dedicated to their training. He faced financial challenges and the lack of proper wrestling infrastructure but overcame these obstacles with sheer determination.

Under Mahavir’s guidance, Geeta and Babita began participating in local wrestling competitions and gradually gained recognition. Both sisters went on to win numerous state and national level championships, with Geeta becoming the first Indian female wrestler to qualify for the Commonwealth Games and Babita securing a gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The movie highlights the strong bond between Mahavir and his daughters, their struggle to break gender stereotypes in a male-dominated sport, and their perseverance to achieve excellence in wrestling. It also showcases the challenges they faced, both within and outside the family, as well as the triumphs they achieved. Overall, Dangal presents an inspiring and motivating true story of the Phogat family’s journey in the world of wrestling.

Are there any books about the true story behind the movie Dangal (2016)?

Yes, there is a book about the true story behind the movie Dangal (2016). The book is titled “Akhada: The Authorized Biography of Mahavir Singh Phogat” by Saurabh Duggal. It provides insights into the life of Mahavir Singh Phogat, the father and coach of the Indian female wrestlers Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari, on whose lives the movie Dangal is based. The book offers a detailed account of their journey, struggles, and success in the world of wrestling.

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