Sony LIV’s Real Kashmir Football Club has been officially nominated for the 2026 International Emmy Award in the Drama Series category.
The critically acclaimed series, based on the true story of Kashmir’s first professional football club, brings a deeply rooted local story from the Valley directly to television’s most prestigious global stage. Starring Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub and Manav Kaul, the show has captivated audiences by tracking the inspiring journey of two men fighting to establish a professional football team amidst challenging circumstances.
Global Recognition: Sony LIV’s Real Kashmir Football Club Secures International Emmy Nomination for Best Drama
MUMBAI — September 24, 2026 — In a historic milestone for Indian digital content, Sony LIV’s original series Real Kashmir Football Club has achieved a nomination for the International Emmy Award for Drama Series.
The show explores a narrative driven by shared dreams, resilience, community, and the transformative power of sports for the people of Kashmir.
A Labor of Love and Resilience
Reacting to the prestigious global nod, Mahesh Mathai, the showrunner and co-director of the series, shared his excitement:
“When you come across a great story, don’t let it pass you by. Grab a hold of it, nurture it, love it, and push it through that long tunnel. It will find the light. We are honoured that this special series has found global recognition through an Emmy nomination.”
Lead actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub dedicated the international milestone to the people living in the Valley:
“This was an important and relevant story for us to tell—a story of resilience, courage, and hard work. We dedicate this recognition to the people of Kashmir, their resilience, and the struggles they have endured. I hope this nomination helps the story travel further and reach a wider audience.”
Cast, Crew, and Production Details
The series stands out for its compelling storytelling, authentic backdrops, and powerhouse performances.
- Production Houses: Jaya Entertainment and Oshun Entertainment
- Directors: Mahesh Mathai and Rajesh Mapuskar
- Writing Team: Simaab Hashmi, Dhruv Narang, Mahesh Mathai, Danish Renzu, and Umang Vyas
- Lead Cast: Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Manav Kaul
- Ensemble Cast: Abhishant Rana, Muazzam Bhat, Priya Chauhan, Anmol Thakeria Dhillon, Afnan Fazli, and Shaheem Bhat
Where to Watch Real Kashmir Football Club
The International Emmy-nominated series is currently available for streaming exclusively on Sony LIV.
As one of India’s premier OTT platforms, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) boasts over 40,000 hours of programming. The streaming giant is globally recognized for producing top-tier premium Indian originals, including:
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