Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub's Inspiring Journey with Real Kashmir FC

A Transformative Encounter with Real Kashmir FC

Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub first learned about Real Kashmir Football Club through casting director Mukesh Chhabra, who casually mentioned, "A show is being made... you should go meet them." Little did Zeeshan know that this meeting would lead him to one of the most significant experiences of his career. When he met director Mahesh Mathai and producer Kilian Kerwin, he was captivated by the emotional and uplifting story of this unexpected football team from the Valley. The excitement he felt was so intense that his decision to join was almost instinctive. "This story is incredible. We often overlook such tales," he reflected, surprised at how narratives of bravery and resilience often remain obscured by the surrounding noise.

Lessons from the Valley

His preparation for the role began with a deep curiosity about the body language of a determined individual. However, nothing could have prepared him for the lessons Kashmir would impart. Years ago, he had visited Kashmir briefly for a shoot, where the cold dulled his thoughts and the tight schedule limited his experience. This time, however, he spent nearly two months in the Valley, which felt like home. He was moved by the warmth of the locals. "They possess a natural warmth and gentleness essential for enduring the cold," he shares. "What wonderful people they are. Great weather, lovely folks, delicious food — what more could one want in life?"

Enduring Connections

The bonds he formed during the shoot lingered long after filming concluded. He and his team often find reasons to return to Kashmir, saying, "Let’s do a project in Kashmir... we just want to go back."

Artistry and Athleticism

Real Kashmir FC also highlighted the intriguing parallels between artists and athletes. Both enter fields often clouded by uncertainty, pursuing dreams that lack guarantees. He observes that in India, footballers face significant challenges — people often question, "What future is there in football?" unaware that a future is built on belief. The series serves as a tribute to those who dare to dream against the odds.

A Journey of Choices

Zeeshan's acting journey resembles a cinematic narrative. He recalls his college days, standing nervously behind the curtain, ready to step onto the stage, feeling the weight of choice. The auditorium was filled, lights blazing in the darkness. He faced two paths — retreat to a safe, mundane life or step into the spotlight and risk embarrassment and failure.

The Power of Training

He chose to embrace the stage, and that moment changed everything. This decision eventually led him to the National School of Drama, where he immersed himself in various acting forms, styles, and techniques. He believes that while training isn't essential, it can be transformative, equipping actors with tools for realism and the poetic, stylized, musical, and surreal aspects of performance that enrich cinema.

Lessons Learned

Through his training and diverse roles — from No One Killed Jessica to Shahid, Raees, Scoop, Criminal Justice: A Family Matter, Article 15, and now Real Kashmir FC — he learned a vital lesson: fame, wealth, and visibility are fleeting, but passion is what sustains an artist.

A Story of Hope

This brings him back to the series. For Zeeshan, Real Kashmir FC transcends being just a show; it symbolizes hope trudging through the snow. It narrates the story of ordinary individuals who support each other when the world seems to let go. It conveys that progress isn't about abandoning one's roots but rather rising alongside them.

Togetherness in the Cold

"What’s the fun in going alone?" he asks. "When you take others along, the story becomes beautiful." That’s the essence of Real Kashmir FC — a narrative of unity, resilience, and belief flourishing in the coldest valleys.

Streaming Details

The series will be available for streaming on Sony LIV starting December 9.