Who was Syed Abdul Rahim, the character played by Ajay Devgn in the blockbuster film ‘Maidaan’

New Delhi: Newly released Bollywood film ‘Maidaan’ which has received an incredible response from the audience is based on the true story of an Indian Football Coach Syed Abdul Rahim who used to be the coach of the Indian Football Team during 1950s. The film ‘Maidaan’ is based on his life and his struggles as a Football coach. Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn has played the role of Syed Abdul Rahim in the film and is currently doing well at the box office. Ajay Devgn’s performance is also appreciated by fans and critics.

This EID, get ready to celebrate an inspiring legacy of #SyedAbdulRahim. 🏅
It’s time to honor his untold & remarkable journey of courage, patriotism, and dedication. 🇮🇳⚽️#Maidaan in cinemas 10th April!

Reserve your seats now!
🔗 – https://t.co/fRjCbJydkw#MaidaanInIMAX… pic.twitter.com/m5BHYJQS47

— Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) April 8, 2024

Who was Syed Abdul Rahim? 

Syed Abdul Rahim was also known as the architect of Football in India. He was the coach of the Indian Football Team from 1950-1963. With his hard work and dedication, the football team managed to qualify for the semi finals of 1956 Melbourne Olympics Football. The team became the first team to achieve this landmark victory.

Under his guidance, the Indian Football team won gold at the 1951 Asian Games. The match was attended by the then Prime Minister Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru. Abdul Rahim launched the 4-2-4 system, the idea was later used by Brazilian Teams in 1958 and 1962 world cup. The coach didn’t put a full stop to his efforts of training the team even after getting retired. He kept guiding and showing light to the aspiring and budding Football players with his experience and knowledge. He once said during an interview, “First of all, we should produce or train the producers or coaches,”

Syed Abdul Rahim’s interview given to Indian Express in 1955. Notice how many of his views are relevant even today #IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/5QDCDpnOud

— IndianFootball_History (@IndianfootballH) October 20, 2019

He added, “Any short-term scheme for training of present footballers or any scheme to send footballers to foreign countries for training will do permanent good to the game,”