Kartik Aaryan has left his fans and moviegoers in awe with the trailer of his upcoming film, Chandu Champion. Directed by Kabir Khan, this film is a biopic of a real-life hero, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, Murlikant Petkar. The film promises to be an emotive and action-packed retelling of a story that epitomizes resilience and triumph against overwhelming odds.
**Who is Murlikant Petkar?**
Born on November 1, 1944, in the Peth Islampur region of Sangli, Maharashtra, Murlikant Petkar is not just a name but a symbol of unyielding determination and heroism. At 77 years old, Petkar’s life has been an awe-inspiring journey from being a soldier to becoming a sports icon. Before his days as an athlete, Petkar served as a jawan of the craftsman rank in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) of the Indian Army. As a boxer stationed at EME Secunderabad, Petkar faced his first major life challenge during the 1965 war against Pakistan, where he sustained nine bullet wounds.
Despite the odds stacked against him, Petkar was not one to give up on life. After a grueling recovery, he found a new calling in sports. Unable to return to boxing, Petkar turned to swimming and other athletic endeavors. His relentless spirit saw him participate in table tennis at the 1968 Summer Paralympics, where he successfully cleared the first round.
Petkar’s name is etched in the annals of Indian sports history for his unparalleled achievement at the 1972 Paralympic Games held in Heidelberg, Germany. Competing in the 50m freestyle swimming event, he clinched the gold medal with a world-record time, marking India’s first-ever gold medal in the Paralympic Games. In the same tournament, he also took part in javelin throw and slalom events, showcasing his versatility. His triumphs on the international stage catapulted him into a revered figure within India’s sporting community.
After his athletic career, Petkar continued to lead an impactful life contributing to society.
. In his mid-50s, he took up employment with TELCO in Pune, continuing his journey of personal and social contribution. In 2018, the Indian government recognized his monumental contributions to sports and his indomitable spirit by awarding him the Padma Shri, one of the country’s highest civilian honors.
**Kartik Aaryan Plays Murlikant Petkar in Kabir Khan’s Chandu Champion**
In Kabir Khan’s Chandu Champion, Kartik Aaryan steps into the role of Murlikant Petkar, bringing to life the incredible saga of this unsung hero. The theatrical trailer of the film was unveiled in Aaryan’s hometown, Gwalior, and has since captivated audiences. The trailer is packed with emotional moments, high-octane action, glimpses of a grand war sequence, and a moving depiction of Petkar’s journey from anonymity to eminence.
Aaryan’s portrayal of Petkar is being hailed as one of his most transformative roles to date. The actor is seen donning multiple hats as a soldier, boxer, and ultimately, a champion sportsman. The emotional depth and grit required for the role have been brilliantly captured, making Aaryan’s interpretation appear both authentic and compelling. The trailer promises a balanced mix of drama, action, and the poignant moments that shaped Petkar’s remarkable life.
Chandu Champion is not merely a film but a tribute to the life and achievements of Murlikant Petkar. It seeks to present a tale of courage and perseverance, inspiring audiences across generations. The film aims to highlight the transformative power of hope and determination, key attributes reflected in Petkar’s life story.
Chandu Champion is all set to hit the theaters on June 14, and it is already being hailed by fans and critics alike as potentially the biggest hit of Kartik Aaryan’s career. As anticipation builds, movie enthusiasts are looking forward to witnessing this biographical drama unfold on the big screen, preserving the legacy of a true Indian legend.
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