As season 11 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) kicked off, the Haryana Steelers not only prepared for another season but also celebrated their rise through a newly launched documentary that promises to bring fans closer to the sport and its athletes.
In association with Disney+ Hotstar and Star Sports, the documentary offers exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes access, revealing the emotions, struggles, and pressures of the players often overlooked during live broadcasts. This now also officially marks the launch of JSW Sports Content Lab – the content vertical under JSW Sports, created to narrate authentic and rooted stories from Indian sport. Fans will gain a deeper understanding of the athletes, their challenges, and the intricacies of the sport, allowing them to connect with the human side of kabaddi. The documentary will allow fans to relate more deeply to the athletes, expanding the audience base as viewers connect with their stories of perseverance and resilience.
Titled “Faulad – Nerves of Steel”, the documentary captures the Steelers’ journey — from enduring one of the largest defeat margins in PKL history at the start of Season 10, to making a stunning comeback and finishing as first runners-up in the same season. It also explores the broader growth of sports and kabaddi in Haryana, showcasing how the region has become a powerhouse in producing top-tier athletes, with kabaddi at the forefront. The Steelers’ journey has become an inspirational story, symbolizing both the resilience of the team and the rise of the sport in Haryana.
Season 10 was a dramatic test of the team’s resolve. Written off by fans and experts alike, the Steelers staged an extraordinary comeback — winning close matches, delivering thrilling performances, and proving they belonged among kabaddi’s elite.
Divyanshu Singh, CEO of Haryana Steelers, remarked, “Our documentary is more than just a tribute to the players, coaches, and everyone who has been part of the Steelers’ journey over the seasons — it’s a powerful storytelling tool that helps us connect with fans, grow our audience, and build deeper engagement. We were inspired by how storytelling can help build fandom, brand loyalty, and drive viewership. Through this film, we highlight the highs, lows, and resilience that brought us to the final, while also tracing the roots of kabaddi as a traditional Indian sport and the pivotal role Haryana has played in shaping Indian athletics. As we enter Season 11, this documentary serves not only as a reminder of what we can achieve together as a team but also as a celebration of the region’s rich sports legacy. It’s about expanding our community, creating more moments to share, and strengthening the bond between the sport, its fans, and the broader audience.”
The documentary draws inspiration from global case studies that have changed the graph when it comes to generating fandom, building brand loyalty, and increasing viewership.
It will play a vital role in the growth of sports by offering fans an immersive experience that goes beyond live action. By telling athletes’ stories and revealing the behind-the-scenes dynamics, such films build emotional connections with audiences, fostering fan loyalty and attracting new viewers. As people become invested in the athletes’ journeys, the sport’s profile rises, contributing to its overall growth and commercialization. Similarly, “Faulad – Nerves of Steel” reflects the Steelers’ inspiring journey, setting the tone for the challenges that lie ahead in Season 11. The team has planned for the documentary to be a recurring feature to give fans inside access that helps them a deeper connect with the team.
Dismissed by experts in Season 5, the team turned their fortunes around through teamwork, determination, and strategic brilliance — adopting a ‘Moneyball’ approach that relied on assembling a well-rounded squad where every player played a crucial role in their success.
Anupam Goswami, league commissioner of the PKL, shared his thoughts, saying, “Haryana has always been a breeding ground for champions, and the Steelers’ story last season was one of the most compelling narratives in Indian sports. The team represents not only kabaddi excellence but also the pride and passion of the people of Haryana. This documentary beautifully captures that spirit and will further strengthen their bond with fans.”
The cultural backdrop of Haryana is well-explored in the documentary, showing how Kabaddi and other sports have provided young athletes from the state with opportunities to rise above socio-economic challenges.
The documentary is available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar and Star Sports, offering fans an intimate look into what it truly means as the team takes to the mat for Season 11.
