After making films like Thalaivii, 83, Vishnu Induri is now all set to bring on to the silver screen another realistic sports drama — the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has apparently acquired the rights of the book, Maverick Commissioner, by sports writer Boria Majumdar, and will adapt it into a feature film.
Vishnu Induri . (By Arrangement)
When asked why a film on IPL, Vishnu replies that no one in the world could believe that a few years down the line India would rule the cricket world.
“Formation of the biggest cricket league in the world, IPL has changed the cricketing world forever. The book is a fascinating account of the creation of the world’s biggest cricketing carnival, IPL. It also features insights about the man who was responsible for the show, Lalit Modi,” says Vishnu, adding that he wanted to adapt it.
Apparently, the filmmaker got the idea of making a film on IPL during his earlier film, 83. “We all are passionate about the game! While 83 was all about depicting history, IPL will be about showcasing how the game has turned into something more than a sport,” explains Vishnu. Since he has been on the lookout for content-driven stories, he felt that a film on IPL would perfectly be in sync with the people. “After bringing out untold stories, I believe we can bring stories that are heart-touching and very fascinating too. I think a film on IPL will be in that direction,” says Vishnu.
“The way the book chronicled what went into making of IPL was fundamentally what I was hooked to,” he shares, adding that his team is currently working on the onscreen adaptation, and the film is currently in the writing stage. “I feel the book has all the ingredients that make for an emotional ride.”
The film also brings to the fore how IPL was made possible — the struggles, challenges and the difficulties.
Lalit Modi. (By Arrangement)
Since the book also elaborately discusses about maverick and former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi, is this book, technically a biopic on him, we ask?
“Not at all,” Vishnu denies vehemently. “Lalit was the one who coined the concept of IPL. Since the cash-rich tourney is his brainchild, he’s being mentioned and the film also chronicles his journey; the film would be incomplete without taking his name,” explains Vishnu, stating that the film is currently in the writing stage.
