Bollywood has long been fascinated by real-life heroes—figures who challenged norms, fought injustice, or inspired millions. But how accurate are these portrayals? Let’s dive into the true stories behind 5 popular Bollywood biopics and see how reel measures up to real.
Singham (Inspired by Daya Nayak)
Reel Life:
Ajay Devgn plays Bajirao Singham, a righteous police officer who takes down corrupt politicians with fists, fire, and fearlessness.
Real Life:
While not a direct biopic, Singham draws inspiration from Daya Nayak, the Mumbai “encounter specialist” known for taking down over 80 gangsters. His larger-than-life persona and controversial career—including a temporary suspension—made him the perfect muse for a Bollywood cop.
Sanju (Sanjay Dutt Biopic)
Reel Life:
Ranbir Kapoor transformed into Sanjay Dutt, showcasing the actor’s tumultuous life—from drug addiction to jail time, to Bollywood superstardom.
Real Life:
Sanjay Dutt’s life is a cocktail of controversy and comebacks. The film, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, drew flak for glorifying Dutt’s missteps while skimming over serious issues like the 1993 Bombay blasts case.
MS Dhoni: The Untold Story
Reel Life:
Sushant Singh Rajput essayed the journey of India’s cricketing legend, from a railway ticket collector to World Cup-winning captain.
Real Life:
Mahendra Singh Dhoni is known for his calm leadership and sharp instincts. The film captures his personal and professional struggles but omits certain controversies (like IPL match-fixing allegations) to keep the tone inspirational.
Raazi (Based on Sehmat Khan)
Reel Life:
Alia Bhatt plays Sehmat, an Indian spy who marries into a Pakistani military family during the 1971 war, gathering critical intelligence.
Real Life:
The story is based on Harinder Sikka’s novel “Calling Sehmat”, inspired by a real unnamed Kashmiri woman who served as a spy. Her identity remains classified, and much of the narrative was dramatized.
Gully Boy (Inspired by Divine & Naezy)
Reel Life:
Ranveer Singh portrays Murad, a Dharavi-based rapper who breaks through societal barriers to become a hip-hop sensation.
Real Life:
Gully Boy takes cues from the lives of real rappers Divine and Naezy, who pioneered Mumbai’s underground rap scene. The film captured their struggles with poverty, family expectations, and the power of music.
