‘IT’S CHALLENGING FOR AN ACTOR TO PLAY ATHLETE’
Saina Nehwal is happy to extend her help to Shraddha Kapoor for the biopic on the badminton ace
Saina Nehwal, who has a massive fan following in the world of Badminton, is a fan of Bollywood movies. She loves reading tidbits on the film industry, gossip included. “I’m a big movie buff and love watching Bollywood films. Whenever I get the time, I enjoy reading the news and gossip about the industry,” smiles Saina.
With a biopic on Saina in the making in Bollywood, one can assume that the fondness has only grown. Actor Shraddha Kapoor will play the famous sportsperson in the film. Saina shares that when she was approached with the idea of a film on her journey, she readily agreed because such films encourage youngsters to take up sports. “I’ve been there for the last 10 years; everyone knows about me and what I do. So, I think a film on sports personalities will definitely make the sport more popular. Hopefully, the film will also inspire more young kids to take up professional Badminton. I see it that way,” she says.
The Padma Bhushan awardee is happy that Shraddha is playing the titular role in the film, which is being helmed by Amole Gupte. Hopeful that it will turn out well, she says, “Shraddha is working hard to understand my style and posture. Her dedication is praiseworthy. I’m sure she’ll be able to pull it off well. When actors try to play an athlete onscreen, it’s really challenging. Shraddha has a coach in Mumbai and he is helping her out at every step.”
Saina is willing to guide the actor as and when she can. “In between my tournaments and practice, I’ll be there for her. I plan to watch her sessions to understand her progress and help her accordingly.”
It was earlier reported that the biopic is getting delayed, as Shraddha is unable to get the nuances of the sport right. However, the director recently confirmed that the film is back on track. There have also been reports that Shradhha might train under Saina’s coach Pullela Gopichand, but the latter has denied it.
I’m a big movie buff. Whenever I get the time, I enjoy reading the news and gossip about the film industry. SAINA NEHWAL BADMINTON CHAMP