This summer, Bollywood is all set to inspire with a lineup of films that will entertain and motivate you to chase your dreams. While Rajkummar Rao’s Srikanth tells the true story of a visually impaired entrepreneur who defies odds, Kartik Aaryan’s Chandu Champion is an inspiring tale of India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. That’s not all, next in line is Akshay Kumar’s Sarfira, a story of chasing dreams. Then there is also Varun Dhawan’s Baby John in store, which promises loads of action and drama. So, grab your popcorn and get ready for a bunch of films that shall not only entertain but also inspire you to believe in the power of your dreams.
SRIKANTH
Release date: May 10, 2024
Directed by: Tushar Hiranandani
Starring: Rajkummar Rao, Alaya F, Jyothika, Sharad Kelkar
With a tagline ‘Aa Raha Hai Sabki Aankhen Kholne,’ Srikanth aims to inspire audiences with its depiction of the real-life story of Srikanth Bolla, a visually-impaired Indian industrialist and the founder of Bollant Industries. The film explores the life of the entrepreneur who not only defies the odds but also juggles them, creating a groundbreaking enterprise that empowers unskilled and differently abled individuals. Starring the versatile Rajkummar Rao, known for his immersive performances, the film promises to be a memorable cinematic experience. Sharing thoughts on his character, Rao said, “I've never played a visually impaired man before. I didn't know if I would be able to do it. But that's the fun where you push yourself out of your comfort zone.” So, mark your calendars for this one now.
BABY JOHN
Release date: May 31, 2024
Directed by: Kalees
Starring: Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi, Jackie Shroff
Coming this summer to satiate cinephiles thirst for action-drama is director Kalees’ Baby John, featuring a star-studded ensemble cast with the likes of Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh, Wamiqa Gabbi and Jackie Shroff. Hinting at the intense and challenging nature of the film, Varun Dhawan recently shared on his Instagram, “One of the hardest shoots I have been on #grind.” Produced by Atlee (of Jawan fame) and his wife Priya Atlee the high-octane and stylised teaser of the film has already given a hint that this film is not just going to entertain but will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
CHANDU CHAMPION
Release date: June 14, 2024
Directed by: Kabir Khan
Starring: Kartik Aaryan, Bhuvan Arora, Palak Lalwani
Another inspiring biographical drama set to grace the big screen this season is the highly anticipated — Chandu Champion. Headlined by Kartik Aaryan and directed by Kabir Khan, the film chronicles the life journey of India’s first Paralympic gold medalist — Murlikant Petkar. Recently, Kartik Aaryan unveiled the first look of his character in the film, portraying a serious and determined demeanour, dressed in a uniform with visible bruises on his face. Kartik expressed his pride in playing a real hero, stating, “When India is written on your chest, it's a different feeling. Proud to be playing a man who refuses to give up. Chandu Champion's first look.”
SARFIRA
Release date: July 12, 2024
Directed by: Sudha Kongara
Starring: Akshay Kumar, Radhika Madan, Paresh Rawal, Seema Biswas
It seems like the season of inspiring cinema is upon us, urging us to pursue our dreams relentlessly. Following close on the heels of Srikanth and Chandu Champion is Sarfira. Helmed by National Film award winner Sudha Kongara, Sarfira, starring Akshay Kumar, is an incredible story of chasing one’s dreams. The film is a compelling narrative set in the world of startups and aviation and is the official remake of the 2020 hit Tamil film Soorarai Pottru. According to a statement from the makers, “Sarfira is all set to inspire the common man to dream big and to chase your dreams even if the world calls you crazy. Sarfira is a uniquely Indian story of grit, determination and good, of an underdog challenging the socio-economic fabric of a system entrenched in class, caste, and power dynamics.” So, start dreaming big and buckle up for Sarfira.