Thaapi: Neeru Bajwa brings powerful story of women’s empowerment to Punjabi cinema, gets support from Indian cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur

Punjabi cinema is all set to witness a different kind of sporting spirit with Thaapi, an upcoming sports drama starring Neeru Bajwa in a role that challenges traditional expectations and celebrates the strength of women. Adding to the film’s growing buzz, Indian women’s cricket team former captain Harmanpreet Kaur recently met the star cast and makers of the film to extend her support to the project. With its focus on women breaking barriers in sports, Thaapi promises to bring a refreshing and meaningful story to the big screen.

Thaapi: Story That Takes Women’s Kabaddi to Centre Stage

Scheduled to release worldwide in cinemas on October 16, 2026, Thaapi explores the world of kabaddi through the courage, determination and dreams of women who dare to challenge established norms. Written and directed by Jagdeep Singh Warring, the Punjabi sports drama follows Kammo, played by Neeru Bajwa, who takes an unconventional step by forming a kabaddi team comprising girls from her village.

What begins as a challenge to deeply rooted social expectations gradually transforms into a journey of ambition, teamwork and self-belief. As Kammo leads her team forward, the girls move beyond the boundaries imposed on them and work towards competing on an international platform, ultimately facing New Zealand. At its heart, Thaapi is not merely about a sporting competition. It is about giving women the opportunity to claim their space in a field where they have often been overlooked.

Neeru Bajwa as Kammo: A Character That Challenges Convention

Known for her contribution to Punjabi cinema, Neeru Bajwa takes on a character that brings together determination, leadership and the spirit of women’s empowerment. As Kammo, she steps into the world of sports to challenge the belief that certain arenas belong exclusively to men.

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Her character represents the women who refuse to let societal expectations decide how far they can go. By bringing a village girls’ kabaddi team together, Kammo becomes more than a coach or a leader; she becomes a source of inspiration for those who have been waiting for someone to believe in their potential.

The role also gives Neeru an opportunity to explore a different kind of female protagonist, one whose strength is reflected not only in her own choices but also in the confidence she helps build in others. Through Kammo’s journey, Thaapi aims to celebrate women who choose to fight for their dreams rather than surrender to limitations.

Harmanpreet Kaur’s Support Adds a Special Touch

Harmanpreet Kaur’s recent meeting with the cast and makers of Thaapi brings an important real-world connection to the film’s message. As a prominent figure in Indian women’s cricket, her journey represents the dedication and perseverance required to succeed in a sporting environment.

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Her support for a film centred on women’s sports adds significance to a story that seeks to encourage more conversations about female athletes and their achievements. While cricket and kabaddi are different sports, the determination required to overcome barriers remains a shared thread connecting their worlds. 

Sunny Singh Makes His Punjabi Cinema Debut

Alongside Neeru Bajwa, Thaapi features Sunny Singh, marking his debut in Punjabi cinema. The cast also includes Hashneen Chauhan, Sawan Rupowali, Sukhwinder Chahal and Pawan Johal, among others.

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Produced by Amanpreet Singh under Smarters Films, in association with Neeru Bajwa Entertainment, the film brings together a team aiming to tell a story rooted in Punjab’s sporting culture while exploring a fresh perspective on women’s participation in it.

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Why Thaapi Could Be a Different Kind of Punjabi Sports Drama?

Punjabi cinema has a strong connection with sports, particularly kabaddi, but Thaapi places women at the heart of the action. Its focus on a village girls’ team makes the narrative stand apart, shifting the spotlight towards female ambition, collective strength and the courage to challenge stereotypes.

The film arrives with a message that reaches beyond the kabaddi ground: talent has no gender, and opportunities should not be limited by tradition. Releasing on October 16, 2026, Thaapi aims to bring an empowering story to Punjabi cinema, one where every girl who steps onto the field has the chance to change the game.

- PTC PUNJABI