Cricket and Bollywood enthusiasts are in for an absolute treat as the highly anticipated Sourav Ganguly biopic has finally dropped its first official visual. The internet is currently buzzing with excitement, and sheer nostalgia has taken over social media timelines. Blending the unapologetic passion of Indian cricket with the grand storytelling of cinema, the upcoming film titled Dada promises to chronicle the incredible journey of one of India‘s most successful, aggressive, and beloved cricket captains. With powerhouse performer Rajkummar Rao stepping into the legendary shoes of the ‘Prince of Calcutta,’ fans are already going berserk over a spine-tingling poster that beautifully captures a golden chapter of global sports history.

Rajkummar Rao brings Sourav Ganguly’s iconic Lord’s moment to life in ‘Dada’ first look

Timing the monumental release to absolute perfection, the makers of Dada unveiled the film’s first look on the special occasion of the former Indian captain’s 54th birthday. The poster instantly transported millions of cricket fanatics back to a defining, adrenaline-pumping moment in Indian sports. The visual brilliantly features Rajkummar recreating Ganguly’s legendary, uninhibited celebration at the historic Lord’s balcony following India’s nail-biting victory in the 2002 NatWest Series final against England.

Seeing a shirtless Ganguly furiously waving his Indian jersey before celebrating with his triumphant squad remains etched in the memories of a generation. It wasn’t just a celebration; it was the ultimate symbol of a fearless, new-age Team India that refused to back down on foreign soil. Translating that raw, unfiltered emotion onto the screen is no small feat, but Rao’s intense body language and undeniable dedication in the poster suggest he has completely immersed himself in the skin of the character.

Taking to his official social media handles to share the electrifying first look, Rajkummar Rao paid a heartfelt, simple tribute to the cricketing icon, writing, “Happy Birthday, our dearest Dada.” The internet immediately erupted, with fans praising the meticulous attention to detail and the sheer nostalgia the image evokes.

Sourav Ganguly reacts warmly to Rajkummar Rao’s first look as him in Dada

The massive wave of excitement wasn’t just limited to the fans; the ‘Maharaja’ of Indian cricket himself was visibly moved by the birthday tribute. Resharing the viral first-look poster on his own social media profiles, Ganguly warmly wished the acclaimed actor the very best for the cinematic journey ahead.

Displaying his signature wit and charm, the former BCCI President wrote, “The best gift ever! Can’t wait to see you play my cover drive!” This enthusiastic stamp of approval directly from Ganguly has only amplified the soaring anticipation surrounding the ambitious project.

Behind the camera, the film is backed by prominent heavyweights of the Hindi film industry. Dada is being passionately produced by hitmaker filmmakers Luv Ranjan and Ankur Garg under the reputed banner of Luv Films. Adding immense cinematic credibility to the biographical drama is acclaimed director Vikramaditya Motwane, who is officially helming the project. Known for his deeply nuanced storytelling and visually striking narratives, Motwane’s directorial vision paired with Rao’s chameleon-like acting prowess guarantees a sports drama that will delve deep into the trials, controversies, and indomitable spirit of Ganguly. As the countdown to the theatrical release begins, this birthday surprise has successfully hit it out of the park, ensuring that Dada is already positioned as one of the most eagerly awaited blockbuster spectacles of the year.

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Here’s how fans reacted:

The story of the Prince of Kolkata, the game changer of Indian Cricket in 2000's, really excited ❤️#DadaFirstLook https://t.co/vZAzHxumBm

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 8, 2026

Happy Birthday DADA ! @SGanguly99 https://t.co/4BVlpZxzuU pic.twitter.com/eVX1jwixyW

— Vineeth K (@DealsDhamaka) July 8, 2026

Can't wait to watch the part where he will talk about his love for women's cricket 😍👏 https://t.co/uGfIo9xnUV

— CRICKET KA KACHRA GG (@timepasshai) July 8, 2026

Well deserved!

I'm sure Rajkummar Rao will absolutely nail it

The iconic moment from the Lord's balcony looks even better as a poster…

Happy Birthday, Dada! 😊 https://t.co/2Yk7nSagTH

— ಅಲ್ಪಸಂಖ್ಯಾತ (@alpasankhyata) July 8, 2026

He is looking more like Ganguly than You https://t.co/k25QzgHsAx

— Shah (@Shahhoon1) July 8, 2026

No one can re create this even in their dreams 🔥

Happy Birthday to my first favourite Crickter Bengal Tiger DADA

Live long legend @SGanguly99#HappyBirthdaySouravGanguly https://t.co/sGMPV4tFrj pic.twitter.com/Fq23m1IBZK

— SIDDHUCHEETAH🇮🇳 (@Siddhucheetah) July 8, 2026

Looks Solid…Can't Wait DADA 😃💥💫❤️‍🔥 https://t.co/3wV39lqi3J

— MoNi (@gazimonirul1234) July 8, 2026

The Best Gift Ever From You ❤️

Happy Birthday Dada @SGanguly99 ❤️‍🔥 https://t.co/IMNnY7uQlK pic.twitter.com/Mqu5oaUsWh

— Ruthvik LUGER(P08) 🐉❤️‍🔥 (@NDevotee9999) July 8, 2026

It will be most awaited movie for 2027. #souravganguly https://t.co/XHJrhWoKMF pic.twitter.com/MKjXa104MD

— Market To Miles (@goyalvikas007) July 8, 2026

STORY' – FIRST LOOK OUT – RELEASE DATE LOCKED… The first look poster of #Dada – The Sourav Ganguly Story, featuring #RajkummarRao, has been unveiled today on the occasion of #SouravGanguly's birthday. pic.twitter.com/o0pOWhkgyv

— Utham (@utham_utham689) July 8, 2026

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