Born blind to farmer parents, Srikanth Bolla knew his journey wouldn’t be easy. Isolation and rejection were his constant companions. However, he turned every challenge coming his way into a possible opportunity and fought establishments to find his way into the education system. When IITs refused him, he went to MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology). Then, he became the first foreign blind understudy in Brain and Cognitive Science and Business at MIT.
Cut to 2022. Today, the 30-year-old is one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the country. The founder of multi-crore Bollant Industries, which deals with biodegradable and eco-friendly products, also worked with former President Late Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. Now, this inspiring and uplifting story will soon get a Bollywood-ized version. And guess who will be essaying the character of this visually-impaired champion entrepreneur on the silver screen? National award-winning actor Rajkummar Rao has been cast in the biopic on Bolla.
To be produced by Bhushan Kumar and Nidhi Parmar Hiranandani, the film will see Tushar Hiranandani as the director. He had earlier directed Taapsee Pannu and Bhumi Pednekar in Saand Ki Aankh. Kumar further said Rajkummar is the apt choice to play the lead role in the biopic.
“Having faced so many challenges since birth, yet not letting anything hamper his dreams — his journey is truly inspirational. And it’s indeed a privilege to be associated with a person like him,” Kumar said.
Tentatively titled ‘Srikanth Bolla’, the film will highlight the inspiring and fascinating journey of the young industrialist. Bollant Industries — the company he founded, also employs and uplifts scores of people with disabilities.
Rajkummar, who has impressed the audiences with films like Shahid, Trapped, Ludo and Stree, says he is looking forward to play Srikanth Bolla, who has risen like a phoenix.
“It’s indeed a privilege to play such an inspiring persona who has been through a lot of hardships and despite every hindrance, risen like a phoenix! I am really looking forward to playing Srikant. I’m happy to collaborate with Bhushan Sir yet again on this compelling project,” he further added.
In 2007, Mani Ratna had directed Abhishek Bachchan in Guru, a film based on veteran industrialist Dhirubhai Ambani.
