Source NDTV
The first look of Rajkummar Rao as former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly in the much-anticipated biopic Dada has sparked intense reactions across social media, with many users expressing disappointment over the actor’s appearance.
Soon after the poster was unveiled, fans and critics alike flooded platforms with mixed to largely negative responses. While the film has generated curiosity due to its subject—chronicling the life and career of one of India’s most iconic cricket captains—the initial visual reveal has not met expectations.
Several social media users pointed out that the resemblance between Rao and Ganguly appeared unconvincing. Critics argued that the prosthetics, styling, and overall look failed to capture the essence of the former cricketer. Some reactions were particularly harsh, with a section of users joking that artificial intelligence tools could have produced a more accurate depiction. The comment, “ChatGPT would have done a better job,” quickly went viral, reflecting the widespread dissatisfaction.
However, not all responses were negative. A portion of the audience urged others to reserve judgment until more material from the film is released. Supporters of Rao emphasized his track record as a versatile performer, noting that he has consistently delivered powerful performances in challenging roles. They argued that a single still image may not fully represent the depth of his portrayal.
Industry insiders also weighed in, suggesting that biopics often undergo multiple stages of refinement, including visual corrections and character development. They believe that the final on-screen performance, combined with storytelling and direction, could significantly alter public perception.
The film Dada aims to explore Ganguly’s journey from a young cricketer to becoming one of India’s most influential captains, credited with transforming the team’s aggressive mindset during the early 2000s. His leadership, controversies, and contributions to Indian cricket administration are expected to be key highlights.
As anticipation builds, the makers of the film have yet to respond officially to the criticism surrounding the first look. Whether the backlash will impact the film’s reception remains to be seen, but it has certainly amplified public interest in the project.
For now, all eyes are on how Rao will bring Ganguly’s larger-than-life persona to the big screen—and whether he can win over skeptics once the film releases.
