From the Hockey Field to the Big Screen: Why Savita Punia Wants Priyanka Chopra to Tell Her Story?

New Delhi, October 16: Indian women's hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia has named Priyanka Chopra Jonas as her preferred choice to portray her if a biographical film is ever made about her life and career, saying the Bollywood and international star could do justice to the role.

In an interview with news agency PTI, Savita said she had never imagined a film being made about her journey but would be happy to see Priyanka play her on screen.

"I never thought of a movie being made on me. But if one is made, Priyanka Chopra is my favourite, and I think she would be able to do justice to the role. When I see their journey, it inspires me a lot," Savita said.

Priyanka, known for Hindi films such as Fashion, Barfi! and Bajirao Mastani, has also established herself in international projects, including Quantico, Citadel and The Bluff. She previously portrayed legendary Indian boxer Mary Kom in the 2014 biographical sports drama of the same name.

Fondly known as the 'Wall of Indian hockey', Savita has made 326 international appearances, becoming India's most-capped woman hockey player. The Padma Shri awardee has played a significant role in the growth of women's hockey in the country over a career spanning more than two decades.

She was instrumental in India's fifth-place finish at the Women's Hockey World Cup this year, the team's best performance in the competition since 1974. Savita also helped India win gold at the Asian Games in Japan this month, securing the team's qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Her journey has been marked by determination and responsibility from an early age. With her mother unwell, Savita began helping with household chores while studying in Class 5, balancing family duties with her sporting ambitions.

Away from hockey, the goalkeeper prefers reading books and listening to music rather than watching films or dressing up. She also begins her day by reciting the Hanuman Chalisa.

"I like reading books and listening to music. I start my day with the Hanuman Chalisa. I don't watch many movies; I've probably seen eight or nine films so far, the last of which was Deepika Padukone's 'Chhapaak'," she said.