Filmmaker Raja Krishna Menon has not given up on the idea of making a biopic on late Manipuri boxer Ngangom Dingko Singh, even years after shelving plans that once had Shahid Kapoor in the lead role. The ‘Airlift’ director said the story continues to stay close to his heart, though he now feels the casting needs a fresh look. Let’s take a look at what he has to say.
Raja Krishna Menon talks about the Dingko Singh biopic
In an interview with Variety India, Raja Krishna Menon called Dingko’s life extraordinary, saying, “Yes, the Dingko Singh biopic is an incredible story because he was quite an incredible man. He came from a place that needs representation.” He added that Dingko’s impact went far beyond the boxing ring, He said, “What he did changed the landscape there and turned it into a sports centre. He was also kind of a maverick involved in many things. There’s a socio-political angle to his story as well.”
Why Shahid Kapoor may no longer be the right fit
The project was earlier planned with Shahid Kapoor as the lead, but Menon now feels the long gap in development calls for a rethink. He said, “I don’t know if Shahid would be interested anymore in doing it because, one, Dingko was very young… in his 20s… when much of his life’s story took place. It’s definitely a film that needs to be made. And it needs to be made with someone younger.”Menon admitted the biopic won’t be easy to execute but remains hopeful. He said, “It’s not an easy film to make, but one that I would really love to make if it all falls into place.”
About Dingko Singh
Dingko Singh won gold in the 54kg category at the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok, a win that made him one of India’s most celebrated boxers. He went on to represent India at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and was honoured with the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri. He passed away in 2021 at the age of 42.
More about Shahid Kapoor
Shahid Kapoor was last seen in ‘Cocktail 2’, co-starring Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Madanna. Directed by Homi Adajania, the movie was released in theatres in June this year.
