Sumo Didi Trailer: Shriyam Bhagnani’s Inspiring Sports Biopic to Premiere on ZEE5 on October 23

The trailer of Sumo Didi, an inspiring sports drama based on the extraordinary journey of Hetal Dave, India’s first professional female sumo wrestler, has been unveiled. Starring Shriyam Bhagnani in the lead role, the film tells the story of a woman who challenges societal expectations and transforms what others perceive as her weakness into her greatest strength.

Produced by Jio Studios, Fresh Lime Films and MA+TH Entertainment Networks, Sumo Didi is directed by Jayant Rohatgi and will premiere exclusively on Hindi ZEE5 on October 23, 2026. The film also features Chaitnya Sharma, Anubha Fatehpuriya, Nitesh Pandey, Raghav Dhir and Meenal Kapoor in key roles.

Sumo Didi Trailer Highlights an Inspiring Journey of Determination

At its heart, Sumo Didi is a story about self-belief, perseverance and the courage to follow an unconventional dream. Inspired by Hetal Dave’s remarkable life, the film explores the challenges faced by a woman who chooses to pursue sumo wrestling despite societal expectations surrounding women, body image and traditional ideas of strength.

Shriyam Bhagnani takes on the challenging role of Hetal Dave, portraying her emotional and physical journey as she fights prejudice and works towards establishing her identity in a sport rarely associated with Indian women. Through her determination, Hetal demonstrates that personal limitations are often shaped by society’s perceptions rather than an individual’s abilities.

The film explores themes of gender bias, patriarchy and body politics while highlighting the importance of embracing individuality. Rather than focusing solely on sporting achievements, the narrative examines the personal struggles and resilience required to stand up for one’s choices.

Shot in India and Japan

Adding authenticity and visual appeal to the narrative, Sumo Didi was filmed across real locations in Japan, Kolkata and Mumbai. The international locations provide a backdrop to Hetal’s journey as she steps beyond familiar surroundings to pursue her ambition.

The film has also travelled to prestigious international film festivals, including the Tokyo International Film Festival and the Palm Springs International Film Festival, bringing the inspiring story to a wider audience.

Director Jayant Rohatgi on Sumo Didi

Speaking about the film, director Jayant Rohatgi described Sumo Didi as an underdog story rooted in grit, resilience and the determination to overcome adversity.

He explained that Hetal’s courage to challenge patriarchy, social pressure, gender bias and body-related stereotypes drew him to the story. Her journey from the narrow lanes of Kolkata to the Japanese countryside forms an intimate and cinematic narrative about reclaiming one’s identity and power.

The director also praised Shriyam Bhagnani for the physical and emotional commitment she brought to the role, expressing gratitude to the producers and ZEE5 for supporting the project.

Shriyam Bhagnani Calls Hetal Dave’s Role Challenging

For Shriyam Bhagnani, Sumo Didi marks her first lead role and represents a significant milestone in her career. The actor described playing Hetal Dave as one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of her life.

According to Shriyam, preparing for the character pushed her both physically and emotionally while changing her understanding of strength and resilience. She said Hetal’s story is ultimately about learning to believe in oneself when the world constantly emphasises one’s differences.

The actor expressed excitement about the trailer’s release and hopes audiences will connect with Hetal’s journey and draw inspiration from her courage.

Hetal Dave Hopes Her Story Inspires Audiences

Hetal Dave, whose life inspired the film, said that many people have experienced moments when they were told they were different or that their dreams were beyond their reach.

Her journey in sumo wrestling taught her to trust herself and continue moving forward despite challenges. She believes Sumo Didi goes beyond the sport to explore the importance of standing by one’s choices, even when society expects something different.

Hetal also expressed hope that the film would encourage viewers to embrace their individuality and pursue what truly matters to them.

With its powerful real-life inspiration, focus on breaking stereotypes and a compelling central performance, Sumo Didi promises an emotional sports drama about courage, identity and the determination to create one’s own path. The film premieres exclusively on Hindi ZEE5 on October 23, 2026.