**”Real Kashmir Football Club” Review:** This eight-part series on SonyLIV takes us to Kashmir in 2016, showcasing how a team of passionate footballers became a symbol of hope in a troubled region. Sohail (Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub) leaves his challenging journalism job to help form a local football team. Surprisingly fast, he gets the necessary approvals to establish the club, something that usually takes ages in India’s bureaucratic system.
But the show doesn’t wallow in red tape. Instead, it focuses on the uplifting power of sports. Through eight engaging episodes, we see how life in Kashmir has been impacted by conflict. One poignant moment shows weathered faces on empty houseboats in the beautiful Dal Lake, highlighting the struggle for normalcy in a disturbed environment.
Sohail’s goal is clear: he seeks “izzat,” or respect, which he believes is true wealth. To achieve this, he approaches key figures like Shirish (Manav Kaul) and Mustafa (Mu’Azzam Bhat), the best coach in Kashmir. He also faces cultural barriers from parents who worry that sports might distract their children from studies.
The series explores youth and community dynamics through Amaan (Abhishant Rana), who grapples with loyalty to his hardline leader Nazir (Adhir Bhat) and the pursuit of job opportunities. Gradually, Amaan realizes the value of the team and decides to join them, seeking stability and respect.
The inspiring partnership between Sohail and Shirish, who represent different faiths, reflects a real-life collaboration by Sandip Chattoo and Shamim Meraj, the founders of the actual Real Kashmir Club. The tensions between characters like local star Azlan (Anmol Dhillon Thakeria) and Scottish coach Douglas (Mark Bennington) add layers to the story as they negotiate their own paths to involvement in the team.
Ayyub delivers a compelling performance, skillfully managing his team while staying focused on their goals. Similarly, Kaul evolves from a mere ‘token Pandit’ to a deep, relatable character, enhancing the show’s emotional impact.
However, the series subtly brushes over deeper issues present in Kashmir. Brief glimpses of military presence and societal tension are palpable but quickly resolved, perhaps to maintain a feel-good narrative. Yet, this doesn’t take away from the essence of the show. At a time when the world longs for hope and healing, the story of Real Kashmir Football Club serves as a reminder that change is possible.
In 2016, the power of sport became a force for good in Kashmir. If it can happen once, there’s always hope it can happen again.
Featured Cast: Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Manav Kaul.
Directors: Mahesh Mathai, Rajesh Mapuskar.
Rating: Three stars.
In recent years, sport has shown its ability to unite communities worldwide. For instance, a 2021 report from the International Olympic Committee highlights the role of sports in post-conflict recovery, particularly in youth engagement. This trend resonates with what “Real Kashmir Football Club” portrays: that sports can bridge divides and heal societies.
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