Sesham Mike-il Fathima

An educated young woman from a middle-class, orthodox Muslim family in Malappuram, Fathima is drawn to commentary and live football broadcasts from a young age. She turns that interest into a career goal, taking internships and seeking opportunities to speak publicly. She demonstrates technical insight, even explaining the physics behind Roberto Carlos's famous free kick to win credibility and opportunities within the sport broadcasting world.

President of the Kerala Football Federation, Jayesh is depicted as a gatekeeper who dismisses Fathima’s ambitions and resists women in the commentary booth. His actions fuel conflict and hint at deeper governance challenges within the league. He is later linked to a cheating scandal that intensifies the tension around fairness in sports administration.

Deputy broadcast director of the IFL, Shiva represents the gatekeeping dynamics in broadcasting while also being a potential ally. He arrives for the IFL organizing committee meeting and ultimately endorses Fathima as a commentator. The revelation that his daughter sent Fathima a chocolate note adds a personal dimension to his influence.

A journalist who was Fathima’s senior in college, Ramya mentors and supports her, helping to navigate opportunities in sports media. She facilitates crucial connections and uses her reporting network to advocate for Fathima’s inclusion. Ramya's role demonstrates the power of mentorship and media access in career advancement.

A banned football player and co-founder of the academy, Solomon represents resilience and complicated ethics within the sport. His ban, related to anti-doping actions, intersects with Jayesh’s alleged involvement in cheating. Solomon’s later crisis and the resulting media coverage push Fathima into the spotlight and test personal loyalties.

Fathima’s father, a supportive family figure who embodies the traditional parental role in a close-knit household. He and Asif are pulled into the drama surrounding Fathima’s ambitions, reflecting the tension between family expectations and personal aspirations.

Fathima’s brother who, along with Muneer, helps navigate family dynamics and supports her ambitions. He becomes part of the practical journey to the IFL events, illustrating the role of siblings in pursuing dreams.

Sports Minister Beena Johny is referenced as an official figure who is approached for help, but the narrative suggests she does not provide the level of support Fathima seeks. Her presence underscores political dimensions in sports governance.

A friend of Jayesh who mocks Fathima, illustrating the social pushback from those within the inner circle of football governance. His dismissive attitude highlights the gender biases Fathima must overcome.

Owner of a sports academy where Fathima takes an administrative role. Catherine provides contextual information about the doping ban and Solomon’s involvement, acting as a link between the administrative world and the players’ history.

A prominent member of the IFL who engages with Solomon and Fathima, signaling the political weight behind broadcasting decisions. He represents the decision-making layer in the league’s administrative machinery.