Budhia Singh – Born To Run(2016)
Budhia Singh – Born to Run is a 2016 Indian Hindi-language biographical sports drama directed by Soumendra Padhi. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee as coach Biranchi Das and Mayur Mahendra Patole as Budhia Singh. It follows the true story of a five-year-old boy from Odisha who becomes the world's youngest marathon runner. The narrative explores the intense bond between the boy and his obsessive coach, and the controversy that erupts when the government and media accuse the coach of child exploitation. The film was praised for its honest storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Bajpayee and Patole. It received two awards and one nomination. The movie released in India on August 5, 2016.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- JioHotstar, Plex
- Theatrical Release
- 5 August 2016
- Director
- Soumendra Padhi
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 1h 52m
- Rating
- 6.9/10
Storyline
A poor five-year-old boy from Odisha is discovered by a strict judo coach who trains him to become a marathon runner. But when the boy starts winning races, the government and media turn against the coach, accusing him of exploitation. The boy must choose between his dream and the system that wants to protect him.
“Born to run. Stopped by the system.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Trivia
- The film's director Soumendra Padhi spent over five years researching the real Budhia Singh's story before filming.
- Child actor Mayur Patole, who played Budhia, had to undergo months of running training to prepare for the role.
- The movie was shot in real locations in Odisha, including the slum where Budhia Singh actually grew up.
- It premiered at the 2016 London Film Festival before its theatrical release in India.
- The film won the National Film Award for Best Children's Film in 2016.
- Real marathon runners were used as extras during the filming of the long-distance running sequences.
- Director Soumendra Padhi chose to use mostly local, non-professional actors from Odisha for authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions
News & Stories
Budhia Singh – Born To Run is an upcoming 2016 Indian biographical sports film directed by Soumendra Padhi. It is based on Budhia Singh, who ran 48 marathons — one of which was from Bhubaneshwar to Pu…