Like Mary Kom, Saala Khadoos is a heartfelt attempt at putting the spotlight on India’s women boxers. As it follows the life of siblings, Laxmi( Mumtaz Sorcar) and Madhi, ( both trained boxers) brought up in poverty, but with their sights set on boxing, the film sheds light on many issues. Namely, the lack of sporting infrastructure and the corrupt selectors who subject the women athletes to sexual humiliation are raw nerves it touches on. A line by a power-drunk coach to a promising pupil, that goes—’If you wish to rise in life, you have to go down first( pun intended)’ is discomforting.
The film had great potential but it plays safe by taking the familiar route of the underdog becoming the champion. You know from the time when Adi picks up a wild child off the street and she over dramatically resists, that he will pursue her to follow his dream. Director Sudha Kongara also deftly weaves in an attraction between the amateur boxer and her khadoos coach, a man almost double her age.
Both Adi and Madhi are rebels. But their fights( especially the ones outside the boxing ring) appear forced and out of sync. But then again, the film keeps you engaged till the proud-India bout in the climax because of the convincing performances. Madhavan is good as the cynical coach who wants nothing more than to earn his stripes. Ritika is raw yet manages a knockout performance. Nasser, Mumtaz and Zakir lend good support.