From Silver Screen to Sports Arena: Aditya Lalage's Hockey Dream Inspired by Shah Rukh Khan

Young hockey player Aditya Arjun Lalage, inspired by Shah Rukh Khan's 'Chak De India', is set to debut for the Indian national team against Germany. Coming from a family of farmers with no background in sports, Lalage has climbed the ranks to become a promising forward in Indian hockey.

Aditya Arjun Lalage, a fresh face in Indian field hockey, credits Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan for his journey into the sport. The 21-year-old, who hails from a farming family in Satara, Maharashtra, found his inspiration in Khan's portrayal of a hockey coach in the film 'Chak De India'.

Lalage's passion for hockey began at the age of 10 at the Maharashtra Government Academy in Pune, despite no familial connection to the sport. His talent and determination have led him to an Indian team debut against Germany, a testament to his hard work and early influences.

With Olympic aspirations and a role model in Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh, Lalage is set to participate in the revived Hockey India League with the SG Pipers Delhi franchise. His journey highlights the growing opportunities and bright future for field hockey in India.

(With inputs from agencies.)