Gurinder Chadha, the director of the iconic 2002 film ‘Bend It Like Beckham’, is actively developing a sequel and has released a new Christmas movie, ‘Christmas Karma’, which offers a Bollywood-inspired take on ‘A Christmas Carol’. These projects highlight her continued influence in blending cultural narratives with heartfelt storytelling, appealing to global audiences.
Chadha’s new festive film, ‘Christmas Karma’, debuted in cinemas on November 14, 2025, reimagining Charles Dickens’ classic with a musical Bollywood flair. Starring Kunal Nayyar as a modern Scrooge-like character named Mr. Sood, the plot follows his redemption through ghostly visits, featuring a diverse cast including Hugh Bonneville, Eva Longoria, and Billy Porter. Chadha described the film as a joyful celebration that naturally incorporates singing and dancing, aiming to capture the spirit of Christmas while addressing deeper social themes.
The inspiration for ‘Christmas Karma’ stemmed from Chadha’s personal experiences, including a family member’s skepticism about celebrating Christmas and observations of political rhetoric on migration. Mr. Sood’s backstory as a Ugandan Asian refugee who arrived in the UK in 1972 adds layers to the narrative, exploring issues of identity and empathy in contemporary Britain. Through his journey, the film encourages viewers to reflect on generosity and cultural integration, wrapped in a festive, entertaining package.
Simultaneously, Chadha is diligently working on the ‘Bend It Like Beckham’ sequel, which she confirmed is in development with hopes to release it by 2027, marking the original film’s 25th anniversary. She is collaborating with her husband, Paul Mayeda Berges, on the screenplay and has enlisted Emma Hayes, the head coach of the U.S. women’s national soccer team, for authentic insights into the evolving world of women’s football. Hayes, who cited the original film as a major inspiration, is providing expertise to ensure the sequel accurately portrays the sport’s growth and competitiveness.
Chadha expressed caution about rushing the sequel, emphasizing the need for a strong script that gives returning characters meaningful arcs. Original cast members like Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley are aware of the project but await the final script before committing. The director aims to build on the legacy of the first film, which challenged gender stereotypes and inspired many, by creating a story that is both hard-hitting and joyous, reflecting the current global enthusiasm for women’s soccer.
The sequel’s development aligns with key events in women’s football, such as the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, underscoring the sport’s expanded reach since the original film’s release. Chadha recalled how ‘Bend It Like Beckham’ faced initial skepticism but ultimately became a cultural touchstone, contributing to the normalization and popularity of women’s sports. She hopes the sequel will similarly empower audiences while celebrating diversity and resilience.
Support for Chadha’s projects extends beyond the film industry, with figures like UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praising their role in British storytelling. As ‘Christmas Karma’ entertains holiday viewers, the anticipated sequel promises to revisit beloved characters and themes, ensuring Chadha’s work continues to resonate. Her dedication to nuanced, inclusive narratives reinforces the enduring impact of cinema in shaping social conversations and inspiring future generations.
