The 2024 Septimius Awards in Amsterdam saw a major victory for Indian cinema, with the Ajay Devgn-starrer ‘Maidaan’ clinching the prestigious Best Asian Film Award. This accolade is a significant recognition for the film, which has been celebrated for its powerful storytelling and cinematic excellence.
Actor Gajraj Rao, who played a pivotal role in ‘Maidaan,’ took to social media to express his overwhelming joy and pride in the film’s achievement. He shared his thoughts on Instagram, writing, “Thrilled and deeply honored to share that our film #Maidaan has been recognized as the Best Asian Film at the esteemed Septimius Awards in Amsterdam. This accolade not only celebrates the film’s artistic excellence but also highlights its impact on the global cinematic landscape.”
Rao extended his heartfelt congratulations to the entire team behind ‘Maidaan,’ particularly praising the film’s producers—Boney Kapoor, Joy Sengupta, and Akash Chawla—as well as the visionary director Amit Ravindernath Sharma. Rao’s post was filled with gratitude and admiration for the collective effort that brought ‘Maidaan’ to life, acknowledging the significance of the award on an international stage.
‘Maidaan,’ directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma, is a poignant and powerful portrayal of Syed Abdul Rahim, a football coach whose unwavering dedication to the sport brought immense pride to India. Ajay Devgn plays the role of Rahim in the film, delivering a performance that has been lauded for its depth and authenticity. The movie also features talented actors Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and Bengali actor Rudranil Ghosh in significant roles.
The film’s journey to the big screen was not without challenges. In 2020, the production faced a major setback when the film’s set had to be dismantled due to the lockdown imposed to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Further adversity struck in May 2021 when Cyclone Tauktae destroyed the set, causing additional delays. Despite these hurdles, the team persevered, and ‘Maidaan’ finally made its way to theatres in April 2024.
One of the highlights of ‘Maidaan’ is its musical score, composed by the legendary AR Rahman, an Oscar-winning musician whose work has been integral to the film’s emotional resonance. Rahman’s contribution further elevates the film, adding a layer of depth to its narrative.
The Septimius Awards, known for celebrating excellence in global cinema, have placed ‘Maidaan’ in the spotlight, recognizing its artistic achievements and the impact it has made on audiences worldwide. The film’s win at the Septimius Awards is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in its creation.
As ‘Maidaan’ continues to garner accolades and admiration, Gajraj Rao’s heartfelt message serves as a reminder of the passion and perseverance required to bring such a project to life. The film’s success not only honors the legacy of Syed Abdul Rahim but also highlights the power of cinema to inspire and connect with audiences across the globe.
