Syed Abdul Rahim, an unsung hero of Indian football, is finally getting the recognition he deserves with the upcoming release of ‘Maidaan’, a film produced by Boney Kapoor and starring Ajay Devgn. Rahim, born on August 17, 1909, in Hyderabad, had a remarkable journey from playing for college teams to becoming a revered coach.
Rahim’s coaching career began in 1943 when he took charge of the Hyderabad Football Association. His leadership led to significant victories, with the Hyderabad Police team winning the Rovers Cup five times in a row and the Durand Cup four times.
However, Rahim’s greatest impact came during his tenure as the coach of the Indian national team from 1950 to 1963, which is often referred to as the golden age of Indian football. Under his guidance, the team achieved historic milestones, including reaching the semi-finals of the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, a first for an Asian team.
One of Rahim’s most notable contributions was his innovative approach to the game. He introduced advanced strategies like the 4-2-4 formation, which was revolutionary at the time. Rahim also emphasized the importance of developing ambidextrous players, enabling them to excel on the field.
Beyond his coaching achievements, Rahim was passionate about nurturing talent and developing coaches. He believed in creating a network of coaches across the country to scout and train young players, ensuring the future growth of Indian football.
Despite challenges like commercialization hindering the sport’s progress, Rahim’s legacy continues to inspire. ‘Maidaan’ promises to shine a light on his remarkable journey, offering audiences a glimpse into the rich history of Indian football and celebrating the enduring impact of Rahim’s contributions.