Sumo Didi is a 2023 sports biographical film on the life of Hetal Dave, India’s only professional female sumo wrestler. The film is the directorial debut of Jayant Rohatgi. The film has been showcased at multiple film festival including 2023 Tokyo International Film Festival, 2024 Palm Springs International Film Festival, and 24th New York Indian Film Festival.
The film is produced by Fresh Lime Films, Jio Studios, and Japanese advertising giant Hakuhodo’s MA&TH or Marching Ants & Trigger Happy Entertainment. It is scheduled to be released on ZEE5 on October 23, 2026.
Star Cast:
Shriyam Bhagnani as Hetal Dave
Chaitanya Sharma as Akshat Sharma
Anubha Fatehpura as Sudha, Hetal Mom
Nitesh Pandey as Rajendra, Hetal Father
Raghav Dheer as Vikku, Hetal Brother
Meenal Kapoor as Shobha
Kazumasa Sato as Taoshi
Sucheeta Trivedi as Kusum
MOVIE REVIEW: An inspiring real-life story that challenges stereotypes about women and body image. In a world that judges women by their bodies, Sumo Didi turns that very perception into a story of strength, determination and resilience. Based on the life of Hetal Dave, India’s first professional female sumo wrestler, the film chronicles her remarkable journey through a sport that remains relatively unfamiliar to Indian audiences.
More than just a sports drama, Sumo Didi is an inspiring story about challenging stereotypes, overcoming societal expectations and pursuing a dream against all odds. While its straightforward storytelling and slow pace prevent it from reaching its full potential, the film benefits immensely from Shriyam Bhagnani’s committed performance. For debutant director Jayant Rohatgi, Sumo Didi is an earnest attempt to tell an unusual and inspiring real-life story. However, the direction remains somewhat flat in places.
The film’s biggest strength lies in its inspirational premise. The storytelling is simple and accessible, making the film easy to connect with. However, the screenplay could have explored several aspects of her journey with greater depth. The slow pace is the film’s most noticeable drawback. Certain moments could have benefited from stronger dramatic writing and more compelling emotional build-up.
Shriyam Bhagnani is the heart and soul of Sumo Didi. She delivers a compelling and committed performance as Hetal Dave, bringing sincerity and determination to the character by her hard work. Anubha Fatehpuria and Nitesh Pandey are convincing as Hetal’s parents. Chaitanya Sharma given a decent performance as Hetal’s boyfriend. Raghav Dheer and Kazumasa Sato, along with the rest of the supporting cast, deliver good performances.
Ultimately, Sumo Didi may not be an exceptional sports drama, but its inspiring premise and committed performances make it a good watch.
Sumo Didi Movie Rating:
Direction 2.5/5
Acting 3.5/5
Dialogues 3/5
Story 3.5/5
Screenplay 2.5/5
Overall Hit ya Flop Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars (Good)
