Nitesh Tiwari on Chinese MMA Fighter Shi Ming Praising ‘Dangal’: ‘No Bigger Reward Than Finding a Place in Viewers’ Hearts’ (EXCLUSIVE)

As Nitesh Tiwari prepares for the release of his ambitious two-part adaptation of “Ramayana,” one of the filmmaker’s most celebrated works continues to inspire people. Nearly a decade after “Dangal” became a global phenomenon, Chinese MMA fighter Shi Ming has revealed that the film inspired her journey as an athlete, prompting the director to reflect on the enduring power of storytelling.

Reacting to Shi Ming’s comments, Nitesh Tiwari tells Variety India, “It reaffirms my faith in the kind of stories I want to associate myself with. Stories that make a difference to someone’s life. For a storyteller, there is no bigger reward than finding a place in viewers’ hearts. And even after a decade, it feels great when top athletes quote it as an inspiration to their journey. Not just from your own country, but from other countries as well.”

Released in 2016, “Dangal” starred Aamir Khan as Mahavir Singh Phogat and chronicled the real-life journey of the Phogat family. The film went on to become one of the biggest global successes in the history of Indian cinema and found a passionate audience in China, where it emerged as a cultural phenomenon.

Shi Ming is one of the rising names in Chinese mixed martial arts. The fighter recently defeated India’s Pooja Tomar via submission at Road to UFC Season 5 in Macau and drew attention after crediting “Dangal” as an inspiration during her journey as an athlete. Yet it was a Hindi-language film about Indian wrestlers that stayed with her.

Over the years, “Dangal” has been cited by several athletes as a source of motivation. Indian women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur had previously spoken about being inspired by the film’s portrayal of sacrifice, discipline and perseverance during India’s memorable run to the final of the 2017 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.

While “Dangal” is rooted in wrestling, its themes extend beyond sport itself. The story’s focus on ambition, resilience, parental expectations and overcoming barriers has ensured it found a connect with audiences who may have little direct connection to wrestling.

That enduring appeal has helped the film travel far beyond the confines of cinema. Years after its release, “Dangal” continues to be referenced not only by moviegoers but also by athletes competing at the highest levels of sport across different countries and disciplines.

For Tiwari, that appears to be among the most meaningful measures of the film’s legacy. Long after its theatrical run ended, “Dangal” continues to live on as a story that inspires people pursuing excellence in their own lives — whether on the wrestling mat, the cricket field or inside an MMA cage.