11 years of 'Chak De! India': Things that make the Shah Rukh Khan starrer memorable

A revolutionary film of sorts, director Shimit Amin's 'Chak De! India' served as a breath of fresh air in Indian cinema back in 2007. The film was centered around the struggle of a former Hockey player (tainted as someone who betrayed his country), to coach the Indian women's national hockey team to prove his loyalty to the nation. Till this date, the audience has fresh in mind, the role of Kabir Khan, played effortlessly by none other than the King Khan of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan. Not to mention, the spectacular performances by 13 newbies, who played the hockey team members. Here's taking a trip down the memory lane and reminiscing what made the film special:

With 'Chak De! India', director Shimit Amin brought to light a fictional story about the Indian women's national field hockey team, which was inspired by the team's win at the 2002 Commonwealth Games. The film presented a great plot about the perseverance of young women in sports: field hockey. With this movie, a major part of the country, that was oblivious of the existence of the Indian Women's Hockey Team got acquainted with their struggle and journey to triumph.

This Shimit Amin directorial managed to deliver a subtle political message, without being too preachy. It explored themes such as feminism and sexism, the legacy of the partition of India, racial and religious bigotry, and ethnic and regional prejudice, all at once. Skipping the cliched route, 'Chak De! India' touched upon patriotism in a subdued way.

Kabir Khan's character from 'Chak De! India' remains one of Shah Rukh Khan's finest performances; measured, straight from the heart. With his layered and intense character, SRK struck the right emotional chord with the audiences. From playing the merciless tough coach to displaying his subtle emotions and providing utmost courage to his team, Shah Rukh completely aced the act. Not many are aware that Shah Rukh had played hockey a long time ago in his college days, so it was but obvious that he understood the world of hockey very well.

This is certainly one film with the maximum number of female actors. Shimit Amin's 'Chak De! India' discovered and brought to light 13 newcomers who delivered spectacular performances. The film starred Sagarika Ghatge, Chitrashi Rawat, Shilpa Shukla, Vidya Malvade, Tanya Abrol, Anaitha Nair, Shubhi Mehta, Seema Azmi, Nisha Nair, Sandia Furtado, Arya Menon, Kimi Laldawla and Masochon Zimik. Each one shined in their own way and each character seemed extremely natural and flawless.

The title track of 'Chak De! India' continues to elicit a sense of patriotism in us even today. The spirited and uplifting track will make you feel extremely proud of your nationality. The vocals by Sukhwinder Singh, Salim Merchant and Marianne D'Cruz add to the zing of the song. Another song from the film that will moisten your eyes is 'Maula Mere' by Salim Merchant and Krishna Beura.