Jackie Shroff lends support to Hetal Dave's biopic 'Sumo Didi'

IANS June 22, 2025 298 views

Jackie Shroff has thrown his weight behind "Sumo Didi," the biopic of Hetal Dave, India's trailblazing female sumo wrestler. The film, starring Shriyam Bhagnani, highlights Dave’s journey battling societal norms to achieve global recognition. Premiered at Tokyo Film Festival, it’s now gaining acclaim at international fests. Shroff’s viral post calls for Indians to celebrate this unsung sporting hero.

"HAI SARE JAHAN PE BHAARI, MERE BHARAT KI BETI" – Jackie Shroff on X
Mumbai, June 22: Actor Jackie Shroff has extended his support to the upcoming biopic on India's first female sumo wrestler, Hetal Dave named "Sumo Didi".

Key Points

1

Jackie Shroff praises Hetal Dave’s global sumo wrestling rank

2

Biopic "Sumo Didi" directed by Jayant Rohatgi premiered at Tokyo Film Fest

3

Shriyam Bhagnani stars as Dave overcoming societal barriers

4

Film backed by Jio Studios showcased at NY Indian Film Fest

Shroff proudly shared that Dave has been ranked as the 5th biggest female wrestler in the world.

Taking to his X timeline, he penned a note, urging all to lend their support to "Sumo Didi". His post read, "Do you know we have a Sumo Wrestler in our country?.. Hetal Dave india's first female sumo wrestler.. Ranked 5th in the world... Comes in the most popular female Sumo Wrestlers of the World.. but not known in INDIA.. She also has a Biopic on her Name "SUMODIDI" which will release very soon.. Follow and support her so that the World Knows "HAI SARE JAHAN PE BHAARI, MERE BHARAT KI BETI. (sic)"

Made under the direction of Jayant Rohatgi, "Sumo Didi" also marks his directorial debut.

With Shriyam Bhagnani essaying the role of Hetal Dave, the biographical drama further stars Chaitnya Sharma, Anubha Fatehpura, Nitesh Pandey, and Raghav Dheer in significant roles, along with others.

Backed by Jyoti Deshpande, along with Akash Chawla, Arunava Sengupta, and Amit Chandraa under the banners of Fresh Lime Films, Jio Studios, and Hakuhodo’s MA&TH Entertainment, the film premiered at the Tokyo Film Festival back in October 2023, after which it has been showcased in numerous film festivals such as the 2024 Palm Springs International Film Festival, and 24th New York Indian Film Festival, along with others.

"Sumo Didi" is the only Indian movie to be showcased in two different film festivals in 2024.

The drama chronicles Dave's journey of discovering sumo wrestling by chance. While she poured her blood and sweat to make her dreams a reality, she was forced to deal with social prejudices and patriarchal mindsets.

The technical crew of the film has on board Akash Agrawal as the cinematographer, Dev Rao Jadhav as the editor, and Amar Mangrulkar as the music composer.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
What an inspiring story! Hetal Dave breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport makes me proud as an Indian. Jackie Shroff supporting this biopic is the cherry on top. Can't wait to watch Sumo Didi! 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
It's sad that we Indians don't celebrate our achievers enough. Ranked 5th in the world and most of us didn't even know! Hope this film changes that. More power to Hetal Dave! 🙌
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Arjun S.
While I appreciate the sentiment, I wish they'd cast someone who actually looks like a sumo wrestler instead of a typical Bollywood actress. Authenticity matters in biopics.
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Neha T.
Jackie dada always supports unique stories! This reminds me of Dangal but with sumo wrestling. Indian women athletes deserve more recognition. Booking my tickets already! 💪
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Sanjay P.
The fact that it's been showcased at international film festivals but most Indians don't know about it says a lot about our media priorities. We need more coverage of such achievements.
M
Meera R.
As a mother, I'll definitely take my daughter to watch this. We need more role models who challenge stereotypes. Hetal Dave's journey against patriarchal mindsets is what every young girl should see!

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Tags:
Jackie Shroff Hetal Dave Sumo Didi movie India first female sumo wrestler Shriyam Bhagnani Jayant Rohatgi