Desi United Exhibit

Inspired by the film Bend It Like Beckham, this photography exhibition explores the space between tradition and ambition, heritage and self expression, football and femininity. Through a striking visual language, Iqra Saied reinterprets the spirit of Jess Bhamra’s journey for a new generation.

Traditional fabrics meet football kits. Family expectation meets personal drive. The quiet negotiations of identity unfold in bold, contemporary portraits that honour the duality of growing up between cultures.

The series began during Ramadan when Iqra revisited Bend It Like Beckham while navigating a period of creative uncertainty after graduating. Surprised by the absence of contemporary reinterpretations of the film across artistic mediums, she began building a moodboard and released an open call, bringing together a small group of women who felt connected to the film and passionate about participating. Using borrowed Manchester United shirts from her father and working with available resources, the project grew through collaboration and shared lived experience.

The series resonated strongly online, receiving over 2,000 likes on TikTok and becoming Iqra’s most engaged Instagram post to date. The series gained significant recognition after Gurinder Chadha herself engaged with the work, liking the post, resharing it on her Instagram story, and commenting, “Well done! Bang on in the spirit of my movie!”

Now exhibited for the first time, the photography series invites audiences to reflect on belonging, representation, and the power of women’s sport in shaping identity today.

The Desi United Exhibit is created and exhibited by photographer Iqra Saied. Produced by Liam Hobday in collaboration with Breaking Barriers Rochdale.

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Host or Publisher Iqra Saied