Filmmaker Atlee Kumar, known for his blockbusters Raja Rani, Theri, Bigil, and Jawan, is expanding his creative world beyond cinema. The celebrated director has now ventured into sports as the co-owner of the Bengaluru Jawans, a leading franchise in the World Pickleball League (WPL).
The Bengaluru Jawans, reigning champions of WPL Season 1, hosted the Bengaluru Open 2025, the third stop of the WPL Tour, at the city’s Pickleball Club. The event was launched in association with the Karnataka State Pickleball Association (KSPA), bringing together players, fans, and enthusiasts for a three-day celebration of competition and community.
Atlee attended the opening ceremony, joined players for a friendly match, and spoke warmly about the growing excitement around the sport. “Pickleball is fresh, fast, and inclusive. It’s bringing new energy to India’s sporting scene,” he said.
Founded by Arjuna Awardee Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the WPL is India’s first professional pickleball league created to give global exposure to emerging Indian athletes.
The Bengaluru Open 2025 features more than 250 participants, over 500 matches, and categories that range from juniors to veterans aged 50 and above.
As Atlee brings his creative drive into sports, the Bengaluru Jawans and the WPL open a fresh chapter in India’s sporting culture, where cinema, competition, and youthful energy come together to create something new and inspiring.
Atlee shared that the name Bengaluru Jawans was inspired by the success of his film Jawan. “That film connected deeply with audiences across India, and I wanted to carry that spirit into sports. Bengaluru Jawans represents discipline, teamwork, and passion, values I strongly believe in,” he said.
A passionate sports follower, Atlee also revealed that he is an RCB fan. “Last year, RCB lifted the IPL trophy, and our Bengaluru Jawans team also became champions. It felt like a proud Bengaluru moment,” he mentioned.
