GULAB SINGH SHERGILL: A STORY OF BELIEF
Made with Leica SL3-S
In the Fields of Punjab, a Dream Takes Root
In a quiet village in Punjab, where mustard fields stretch to the horizon and time moves gently, a quiet revolution is unfolding. It isn’t led by public figures or institutions, but by a humble constable, Gulab Singh Shergill.
By day, he wears the uniform of the Punjab Police. But his real work begins at dawn and ends after dusk, on a cricket pitch he built from scratch to train young girls in his village. What began on a small terrace with broken bats and bricks for wickets turned into something extraordinary. Gulab sold his land, his car, and nearly everything he owned to build a proper cricket ground, buy equipment, and bring in coaches. He believed that even one international cricketer from the village could inspire hundreds of girls to chase their dreams.
Nirali’s Lens and Purpose
Filmmaker and photographer Nirali followed Gulab and the girls he trains to tell a story that speaks of conviction, resilience, and quiet transformation. Her aim wasn’t just to document but to honour the spirit of a man who gave up everything so others could rise.
“He’s not just building cricketers. He’s building a generation that believes it belongs.” — Nirali Naik
To bring this story to life, Nirali needed a camera that could keep up with her pace and the emotional depth of the narrative. The Leica SL3-S became that trusted partner.
The SL3-S: Built for Stories That Matter
The Leica SL3-S brought Nirali’s vision to life with clarity and soul. Its 6K video recording gave her the cinematic quality and flexibility she needed in post-production. The 30fps continuous autofocus ensured she never missed a crucial moment, whether it was a burst of laughter or a sprint across the field. Handheld shots were smooth and steady thanks to advanced stabilization, and the SL3-S performed beautifully in low light, preserving every mood and nuance. With direct SSD recording and the ability to shoot 96MP stills, the transition from motion to moment was seamless.
“This camera doesn’t just record. It listens. It breathes with you. It’s as much a storyteller as the person behind it.” — Nirali Naik
Nirali Naik
Nirali Naik is a cinematographer and photographer known for her empathetic gaze and deep commitment to storytelling. With over eight years of experience in the Hindi film industry, she brings both technical expertise and emotional clarity to every frame. Passionate about stories that often go unheard, Nirali blends artistry and intention to spotlight voices from marginalised communities. With the Leica SL3-S in her hands, she didn’t just document Gulab Singh Shergill’s journey, she honoured it, frame by frame.
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