The Enduring Legacy of ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag’: A Celebration of Sports and History

A Triumphant Return

On August 8, a landmark moment in Indian cinema is set to unfold as the iconic biopic Bhaag Milkha Bhaag reopens its doors to audiences, marking 12 years since its initial release in 2013. This film chronicled the remarkable journey of India’s national treasure, the athlete Milkha Singh, and blended personal triumph with the historical backdrop of India’s partition. Director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra shared his excitement about the film’s lasting impact, noting that its recognition spans from urban centers to distant places like the Maldives.

More Than Just a Sports Bio

In an exclusive conversation with Dainik Bhaskar, Mehra emphasized that Bhaag Milkha Bhaag transcends the typical sports biography. It encapsulates Milkha Singh’s essence and highlights the turbulent period of partition that defined a generation. “This is not just a story of a sportsman but of a nation undergoing immense transformation,” he remarked, framing the film as a cultural mirror reflecting both personal and societal change.

Milkha Singh’s Heartfelt Gesture

In a remarkable demonstration of humility and sincerity, the late Milkha Singh accepted a mere one rupee as compensation for his life story. This gesture amplifies the film’s emotional depth, reinforcing its authenticity. Originally slated for a July 18 release, the postponed premiere on August 8 presents a renewed opportunity for audiences to engage with this work of art that celebrates both sporting excellence and the resilience of the human spirit.

Behind the Scenes

Mehra openly discussed the intricate processes involved in shaping the film. He highlighted how the creative team was tasked with portraying Milkha Singh’s exceptionally complex life, marking the responsibility of showcasing not just achievements but also vulnerabilities. “Portraying someone’s life on screen demands a deep level of respect,” he acknowledged, hinting at the weight of the task.

First Encounter with Milkha Singh

Recalling his first encounter with Singh in Chandigarh, Mehra remarked how impactful the meeting was. “I felt like I had come home,” he confessed. The director chronicled how Singh, along with his family, entrusted him with telling their story, emboldening Mehra and galvanizing the entire team toward a heartfelt presentation.

Lessons in Resilience

One of the film’s central themes is the spirit of determination and self-competition. “Winning and losing are mere facets of a competition. The true challenge lies within,” Mehra emphasized, highlighting how Milkha Singh’s journey was not merely about medals but about conquering personal fears and striving for self-improvement.

Challenges of Period Filmmaking

Creating a film set in a different time period carries its own set of challenges. Mehra admitted that the story dates back to a time before his birth, demanding extensive research to recreate an authentic portrayal. However, his background in sports helped ease that aspect, as he was familiar with the dedication and rigors of athletic training.

Noteworthy Casting Decisions

On the subject of casting, Mehra did reflect on the initial considerations which included notable names like Akshay Kumar and Ranbir Kapoor. However, he clarified that once Farhan Akhtar stepped into the role of Milkha Singh, it became clear that he was the perfect fit. “Every grain has its consumer,” he said, emphasizing Akhtar’s intrinsic connection to the character.

Emotional Moments Captured

The filming journey was not without its emotional moments. Milkha Singh’s daughter, Sonia, reportedly fainted upon seeing Akhtar’s transformation into her father. These experiences provided an undercurrent of authenticity throughout the filmmaking process.

Furthermore, after the film’s release, a touching moment came when Singh gifted his Olympic spike shoes to Akhtar. Mehra narrated an emotional backdrop to this, discussing how he had previously purchased the shoes for charity and later presented them to Singh, who then decided to pass them on to Akhtar.

The Significance of One Rupee

An intriguing story from the production was Mehra’s quest to find a one-rupee coin from the era when Singh competed at the Olympics. The effort underscored the respect Mehra held for Singh and the film’s historical precision.

Genuine Contributing Roles

Mehra also highlighted Sonam Kapoor’s role, stating she took only 11 rupees for her character, acknowledging the significance of her presence as a turning point in Singh’s narrative.

The Heart of the Narrative

At the core of Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is a singular truth: the importance of honesty in storytelling. Mehra pointed out that true connection lies in vulnerability, adding dimensions to the characters. “People resonate with stories they can relate to,” explained Mehra, revealing how the film’s authenticity endears it to audiences.

Flaws and Authenticity

In depicting Milkha Singh’s life, the film did not shy away from showcasing imperfections. Mehra elaborated on how Singh opened up about his past, enabling the film to portray both triumphs and tribulations, thus creating a more holistic narrative.

Musical Impact

Mehra was also keen to discuss the film’s music, which struck a chord with many viewers. He saw music as a foundational element and felt that its emotional resonance is often as impactful as the visuals.

A Director’s Cameo

Interestingly, both Mehra and Milkha Singh made brief cameos in the film. Mehra’s appearance was a spontaneous decision due to a missing actor. He enjoys taking such roles, further enriching the films he directs.

Remembered Praise and Global Impact

The film not only garnered critical acclaim domestically but also left a lasting impression internationally. Mehra remembers fondly how, even during a recent trip to the Maldives, people recognized and appreciated the film. The global resonance of Milkha Singh’s story has captured hearts far and wide.

A Meaningful Legacy

The narrative surrounding Bhaag Milkha Bhaag continues to evolve. From far-flung corners of the world to significant sports figures like Carl Lewis acknowledging Singh’s legacy, the film’s impact remains significant. Celebrating the life of Milkha Singh, it stands as a testament to resilience, spirit, and the enduring human experience, marked by both triumph and vulnerability.