Murlikant Petkar On 2 Years Of ‘Chandu Champion’: ‘Kartik Aaryan’s Dedication Deserves A National Award’

Two years after the release of Kabir Khan’s acclaimed sports drama Chandu Champion, the film continues to leave a powerful impression—not only on audiences but also on the man whose life inspired the story. India’s first Paralympic gold medallist, Murlikant Petkar, believes the movie achieved something far greater than recounting his achievements; it introduced his remarkable journey to millions of people across different generations.

Speaking about the film’s influence over the past two years, Petkar described the experience as both emotional and transformative. According to him, the movie amplified his story on a scale he had never imagined and helped bring long-overdue attention to India’s Paralympic history.

He shared that before the film’s release, only a limited number of people were familiar with his achievements and contributions to Indian sports. Today, however, he regularly meets individuals who tell him how Chandu Champion motivated them, inspired them to overcome challenges, or changed the way they think about perseverance and determination. For Petkar, that kind of response has been one of the most rewarding outcomes of the film’s success.

A changing perception of para-athletes

Beyond highlighting his personal story, Petkar feels the film has played an important role in reshaping public attitudes toward para-athletes. He noted that for years, athletes with disabilities were often viewed primarily through a lens of sympathy rather than respect for their sporting excellence.

In his view, that mindset is gradually evolving. More people are beginning to recognize para-athletes as elite competitors who dedicate themselves to their sport with the same discipline, commitment, and courage as any other athlete.

Petkar acknowledged that several challenges still remain, including infrastructure limitations, unequal opportunities, and the ongoing struggle for greater recognition. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful about the direction in which things are moving. He believes that if a film can contribute even slightly toward creating greater awareness and respect for para-sports, then it has achieved something truly meaningful.

Kartik Aaryan earned his confidence and admiration

One of the most memorable aspects of the entire experience for Petkar was watching Kartik Aaryan prepare for and portray his character. He revealed that his relationship with the actor grew considerably during the making of the film as he witnessed Kartik’s commitment up close.

Petkar recalled that from their very first meeting, the actor approached the role with genuine sincerity. Rather than simply understanding the events of his life, Kartik wanted to grasp the emotions, struggles, and mindset behind every stage of the journey.

Over time, that dedication helped build a strong bond between the two. Petkar said he was deeply impressed by the amount of effort Kartik invested in bringing authenticity to the role. In his opinion, the actor did not merely perform a character—he fully immersed himself in the experience and treated the story with immense respect.

The Paralympic champion was especially generous in praising Kartik’s performance, stating that the actor’s hard work and commitment deserve recognition at the highest level. Petkar even expressed the view that Kartik Aaryan should be considered worthy of a National Award for his portrayal.

A connection that continues beyond the film

Petkar also revealed that despite their busy professional schedules, he and Kartik continue to share a warm relationship. While they may not communicate frequently, the mutual respect established during the film remains intact.

He expressed happiness at seeing how Kartik has continued to grow professionally since the release of Chandu Champion. According to Petkar, the actor has carried forward the impact of the film with dignity and sincerity, something he greatly appreciates.

What impressed him most was not merely the actor’s physical transformation for the role but the emotional depth he brought to the screen. Petkar felt that Kartik successfully captured not only the victories but also the disappointments, frustrations, self-doubt, and determination that shaped his life.

The emotional reality behind the performance

Several scenes in the film resonated deeply with Petkar because they mirrored experiences he had personally lived through. Moments depicting rejection, setbacks, and the constant need to prove oneself felt particularly authentic to him.

He explained that these emotional struggles were a significant part of his journey, and seeing them portrayed with honesty on screen left a lasting impression. What stood out most was the sincerity with which Kartik approached those moments, ensuring they felt genuine rather than dramatized.

Looking back with pride

Even today, watching Chandu Champion remains an emotional experience for Petkar. Revisiting the difficult chapters of his life through cinema often brings back memories of hardships he endured, memories that time may have softened but never completely erased.

At the same time, the film serves as a powerful reminder of how far he has come. For Petkar, the story is not simply about winning medals or achieving sporting success. It is about resilience, courage, and the belief that adversity can be transformed into achievement through determination and hard work.

Two years after its release, Chandu Champion continues to stand as more than a sports biopic. For Murlikant Petkar, it remains a celebration of perseverance and an enduring source of inspiration for audiences who continue to connect with its message of never giving up.