Abstract
The intersection of cinema and sports fandom in India has witnessed a surge in biographical films that celebrate cricketing legends. M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016), Sachin: A Billion Dreams (2017), and 800 (2023) narrate the lives of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, and Muttiah Muralitharan, respectively, portraying their struggles, triumphs, and contributions to the sport. These biopics play a crucial role in shaping aspirations among Indian youth, who often look to these figures for inspiration. This proposed study examines the impact of these popular films on youngsters in India by analysing how cinematic representations of real-life sporting achievements influence motivation, self-perception, resilience, perseverance, overcoming adversity, and achieving greatness against all odds. Grounded in Self-Determination Theory and Social Learning Theory, this proposed research employs a qualitative approach, including focus group discussion and semi-structured interviews with youngsters, film buffs, budding cricketers, film critics, and sports media analysts. The study explores how these films contribute to the formation of personal identity, personality development and goal-related activities. The findings may highlight how sports narratives are localized to inspire youngsters and the role of media in socialization, offering cultural and psychological impact and youth engagement in India.
Presenters
Maheshwari HarikrishnanResearcher, Institute of Business and Computer Studies, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed-to-be University, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India Vijay Kumar Vijayan
Associate Professor and Dean, School of Communications, XIM University, Orissa, India
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Global Sports Local Cultures
KEYWORDS
Cricket Biopics, Cinema, Media Influence, Youngsters, Motivation, Impact
