Bollywood actresses have embraced physically taxing parts in recent years that ask for much more than merely displaying emotion on screen. Many have gone over and above by acquiring new athletic abilities to give their characters more nuance and realism.
Here’s a look at five leading actresses who embraced sports training to convincingly portray athletes in films.
Priyanka Chopra
When Priyanka Chopra Jonas played boxing champion Mary Kom in the documentary Mary Kom, she underwent a remarkable transformation. In an effort to honour the legendary athlete, Priyanka spent ninety days training hard, mastering punching, dodging and endurance. She did all of her own boxing sequences without the use of body doubles, putting herself through a rigorous regimen to mimic the genuine boxer’s strength and quickness.
Parineeti Chopra
In ‘Saina’, Parineeti Chopra accepted the task of portraying badminton sensation Saina Nehwal. Parineeti made a commitment to practise badminton for two hours every day in order to faithfully portray the Olympian’s journey. She studied the sport extensively and refined her movement, grip, and shot technique to portray the tenacity and fortitude of a top-tier player on film.
Fatima Sana Shaikh
In the sports drama ‘Dangal’, Fatima Sana Shaikh portrayed a wrestler, which was her big break. Fatima prepared thoroughly, watching hours of wrestling events, taking kickboxing classes, and participating in functional training to learn the ins and outs of the sport. Her performance, which was commended for its physicality and realism, gained credibility from her ability to mimic the body language and motions of wrestlers.
Kangana Ranaut
In ‘Panga’, Kangana Ranaut played a national-level kabaddi player, perfectly encapsulating the essence of an athlete returning to competition after becoming a mother. From quick legwork to defensive tactics, Kangana took the time to understand the sport.
Radhikka Madan
Radhikka Madan took on the role of a cricketer in ‘Kachhey Limbu’. In order to properly inhabit her persona, she trained extensively in cricket, honing her batting, bowling, and fielding skills.
