Going to the movie theatre is just a normal aspect of life for many. But when the film you are going to watch is based on your life and achievements, there are a whole gamut of emotions and highs that come into play.
For footballer Brahmanand Shankwalkar walking the red carpet for the film on his life at the International Film festival of India (IFFI), in the Goa section, was a momentous occasion. Brahmanand was the first Goan to be honoured with the Arjuna Award, and he made Goa proud in 2022 as the first Goan sportsperson to receive the Padma Shri Award.
The documentary film Famously Found @15 directed by Savio De Noronha, a fan and passionate footballer, has proven to be the icing on Brahmanand’s cake. Director Savio was backed by National broadcaster Doordarshan and Uday Kamat to make this film, which was released in 2023.
The film was released on March 6, 2023, which was also the 70th birthday of the legendary Goan footballer.
This year is a memorable one for the director because his film debuted at the 55th edition of IFFI as he turned 55. In a chat with Gomantak Times Digital, Brahmanand and Savio share their memories of making the documentary. There were hurdles no doubt, but they were all tackled and the resultant film is well worth the pains taken.
FROM FOOTBALL FIELD TO RED CARPET
The documentary had a packed auditorium which was a sign that Brahmanand is still amongst the most loved goalkeepers. He says with a laugh, “I never thought I would walk the red carpet and even attend IFFI. It was such a proud moment for me.” Brahmanand began playing football at a young age of 15, and hung up his boots after playing on the field for 25 years.
“He was just 18 years old when his team won the Bandodkar Gold Trophy, and ever since then, there was no looking back for him,” says Savio, who loves to play football and is part of the Goa Veterans Football Club. He tells us about the film and why he decided to name it Famously Found @ 15.
I never thought I would walk the red carpet and even attend IFFI. It was such a proud moment for me.
Brahmanand Shankwalkar, footballer
MARRIED TO FOOTBALL
“It was because Brahmanand started his football career at the age of 15. Since then, he has dedicated his life to the game. He continues to practice his skills at the seniors’ club at Don Bosco grounds in Panjim,” says Savio.
In his long, prestigious career, Brahmanand played for Panvel SC, Salgaocar SC, Churchill Brothers and Anderson Marine. He was also the captain of the national football team.
THE FINAL PRODUCT
Recalling the time when they were shooting for the documentary, Savio and Brahmanand spoke about having to reshoot a few shots because of the bad weather and technical difficulties.
“There was one time when it suddenly started raining, and we had to shift the shoot to another time. Then while shooting, the team realised there was an issue with the audio, so we had to shoot again. There were difficulties, but when we look at our final product, it’s really amazing,” says Brahmanand.
The documentaries from Goa are a series of stories by Savio De Noronha, showcasing the State’s famous personalities, including Mario Miranda and Ramdas Kamat. The series started with the film on Brahmanand and his football career.
The documentary film can be watched on: https://youtu.be/7v2gO19QIKU