Rajkummar Rao announces start of 'Dada', biopic on former captain Sourav Ganguly

Actor Rajkummar Rao has begun shooting for his next film, a biographical drama based on former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly. The project, titled Dada, has been in discussion for some time and is now officially underway.

On Wednesday, Rao shared an update on social media, confirming the development and revealing the film’s title. Posting on Instagram, he wrote, “And it begins … The one and only #DADA (sic).” The announcement marks the start of production on a film that has seen several casting speculations over the years.

Earlier reports had suggested that Ranbir Kapoor might take on the lead role. However, the makers have now finalised Rao to portray Ganguly, one of Indian cricket’s most prominent figures. The film aims to trace Ganguly’s journey, though specific plot details have not yet been disclosed.

Dada is being directed by Vikramaditya Motwane and produced by Luv Ranjan under his banner Luv Films. This marks the second collaboration between Rao and Motwane after their 2017 film Trapped, which received positive critical response and performed steadily at the box office.

The release date of Dada has not been announced so far. It remains unclear whether the film will arrive in theatres later this year or in 2027. More details about the supporting cast and production schedule are also awaited.

Apart from this project, Rao has a line up of films in different stages of production. He is set to feature in a biopic based on Ujjwal Nikam, along with projects titled Toaster and Raftaar. These films are expected to showcase varied genres and roles for the actor.

Toaster, which is also backed by Rao, is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on April 15, 2026. Meanwhile, Raftaar, co starring Keerthy Suresh, is slated for a theatrical release on July 24, 2026.

With filming now underway, Dada adds another high profile biopic to Rao’s filmography.