ZEE5 Global’s Sumo Didi is not your run-of-the-mill biopic or a conventional underdog story. What I liked most about the film directed by Jayant Rohatgi is that it doesn’t try to make Hetal look perfect. It shows her determination and hard work, but it also highlights her mistakes and how she learns from them. The film doesn’t glorify the sport or hide her struggles. Instead, it gives us an honest look at a woman who dared to dream differently and worked hard to make those dreams come true.
At the heart of the film is Shriyam Bhagnani, who delivers a compelling performance as Hetal. She captures the protagonist’s determination, perseverance and sheer hard work without making her appear infallible. What makes the narrative refreshing is that it allows Hetal to make mistakes, face the consequences of her choices and learn along the way. The film neither glorifies the sport nor romanticises her setbacks. Instead, it offers an honest account of a woman’s struggles, ambitions and growth.
The family dynamics add another layer to the story. Hetal’s father and brother are integral to her journey, and it is refreshing to see a father figure who stands by his daughter at every step rather than allowing patriarchal expectations to dictate her future. His support becomes an important part of Hetal’s fight to pursue a path that few would have imagined for her.
The portrayal of her mother, however, is a different story altogether. To put it mildly, the character comes across as toxic, making some of the protagonist’s struggles feel even more difficult to watch. I can only hope that the filmmakers exercised some cinematic liberties in shaping this character, and that the real Hetal Dave did not have to contend with such a relationship in quite the same way.
Chaitanya Sharma, the actor and rapper-musician also known professionally as SlowCheeta, is another pleasant surprise. Known for his musical talent, he proves that his abilities extend beyond the recording studio. His portrayal of Hetal’s friend, coach and guide adds warmth to the narrative, and he slips into the role with an ease that makes their equation believable. His character offers Hetal the encouragement and companionship she needs without reducing the relationship to a mere plot device.
The music is another plus. Amar Mangrulkar, who composed the film’s songs and background score, elevates the emotional experience and lends momentum to Hetal’s journey.
I particularly liked that Sumo Didi makes room for Hetal’s romantic side, too. Her life is not presented as an endless pursuit of wrestling goals, nor is she defined solely by her ambition to succeed in a male-dominated sporting arena. Beneath the determination and grit is a young woman with her own dreams, vulnerabilities and desires. This softer dimension makes her feel more relatable and human.
