Farhan Akhtar painstakingly transformed himself to portray the life of Milkha Singh and the actor believes the story needed to be told as it talks about a real hero.
"I think here in India we constantly search for heroes. We have made a film on one such hero who made everyone proud. Biopic have the potential of bringing present generation closer to history. I hope many more such films of the biopic nature will be made about people from different fields," Farhan told reporters here.
"The film also touches upon the lives of those people who have made a mark in their field and made the country proud. It tells us about the sacrifices be it physical or emotional that these people have made. This is very inspirational," he added.
Akhtar went through vigorous physical training to play the athlete. To look the part, he built an admirable athletic body besides growing his hair and beard. The actor-director followed the fitness regime of athletes for two years to prepare for his role.
The actor-director, 39, is elated that he was chosen to portray Milkha's role by director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra.
"When Rakeysh narrated me the script in 25 minutes, I was blown away with this man's life story. I wanted to re-tell his story to the audience. The national pride should be brought back in youth by making this film and that was my idea."
The film also stars Sonam Kapoor and the makers are looking for a July 12 release this year.
Sonam became emotional after watching the trailer of the movie.
"You guys have seen the trailer and you must have understood the kind of work we have done in the film. I have only taken Rs 11 for this film," she said.