Never expected such a movie from Indian film industry, and such a response from Indian audience

Rating: 10/10 (8 March 2011)

Felt like sharing my experience of watching this movie some 4 years ago...
One fine day none of my friends were in mood to attend college. So we all decided to bunk college and visited nearby theater. Most of my friends suggested to go for Chak De India, while I joined their oppositions who wanted to watch some Hollywood movie (don't remember what that movie was).
Few reasons for which I thought this movie was not worth a watch:
1)This movie is based on Indian sports... and not every movie is "Lagaan" (if you haven't seen Lagaan, that should be your next target).
2)This movie is based on Hockey (the 'dying' National Sports), while Lagaan is based on Cricket (the second most Important thing in India after Religion).
3)This movie is based on 'Women's Hockey'!...dude, never in Indian history any movie was made based on women sports (just ignore Bend It Like Bekham... it wasn't an Indian Movie).
4)The movie is starring Shahrukh Khan - the best 'commercial' actor, while Lagaan is starring Aamir Khan - Mr Perfectionist.
OK. I accept. I HAD NEVER BEEN SO WRONG ABOUT A MOVIE BEFORE (forget movie, I had never been so wrong about anything before).
Within the first 10 minutes, I was both mentally and emotionally connected with 'Kabir Khan'- played by Shahrukh Khan. I laughed, I cried, I clapped. Every person in the theater respected the National Anthem by standing up, when it was played in a scene in the movie...damn man I felt so patriotic. This indeed is the best performance by Shahruk Khan. I stopped criticizing him after this. I cannot forget his expressions after the final match...and the background song- Maula mere le le meri jaan (meaning- O lord, take away my life). Every time I see that scene, I try my best to hide my tears...just like I feel every time I see the climax of 'October Sky'.
Well, I thank my friends with whom I was arguing in the beginning. Hats off to the creators of this movie - for bringing back my hope in Hindi movies.
"Watch It AND Get Inspired" - CHAK DE!