The biopic “Chandu Champion,” while not a box-office sensation, stands as a significant milestone in Kartik Aaryan’s acting career. The film, directed by Kabir Khan, chronicles the life of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. Both Aaryan and Khan are set to delve into the intricacies of their collaboration and filmmaking process during a special session titled “In Conversation” at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) on August 17.
Aaryan has frequently shared how the role demanded a profound physical transformation. To authentically portray Petkar, the actor not only shed 18 kilos but also took up boxing and wrestling, reflecting the rigorous preparation that went into embodying the athlete. This session at IFFM will shed light on these incredible efforts, offering the audience a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of a film that celebrates an unsung hero in Indian sports history.
Director Kabir Khan will recount his journey from the first meeting with Petkar in 2021 to selecting Aaryan as the lead. This decision was a pivotal moment for the film, given the demanding nature of the role which required not just acting prowess but also physical endurance and commitment. The session will provide an in-depth narrative of how the eight-minute one-take war sequence was filmed in Jammu and Kashmir, which is one of the film’s most challenging and visually spectacular scenes.
Mitu Bhowmick Lange, the festival director, is excited to host the session. She emphasized the significance of “Chandu Champion” in setting new standards for sports biopics in India. “Their collaboration has set a new benchmark for sports biopics. This session promises to offer fans a rare glimpse into the creative journey of two of India’s most talented artistes,” Lange remarked. The film occupies a unique space in the landscape of Indian cinema, bridging the gap between mainstream entertainment and poignant biographical storytelling.
This is Aaryan’s second appearance at IFFM.
. Last year, he was honored with the Rising Global Indian Superstar of Indian Cinema award, a testament to his growing influence and popularity in the film industry. Reflecting on this, Aaryan expressed his gratitude and excitement to discuss “Chandu Champion” at such a prestigious platform. The film and the role have evidently left a lasting impact on him, both personally and professionally.
Petkar’s story, which “Chandu Champion” brings to the forefront, is one of triumph over adversity. Injured during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, Petkar defied odds by not only focusing on recovery but excelling in sports, eventually winning a gold medal in swimming at the 1972 Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany. His journey is a testament to human resilience and determination, qualities that Aaryan had to deeply imbibe to do justice to his character.
Khan’s directorial approach in “Chandu Champion” goes beyond conventional filmmaking. It involved meticulous research and an empathetic portrayal of Petkar’s struggles and victories. The director has previously handled complex narratives with sensitivity and depth, and this film is no exception. His collaboration with Aaryan has produced a film that, while perhaps not a commercial juggernaut, has resonated deeply with those who appreciate its artistic and inspirational value.
The discussion at IFFM promises to be an enlightening experience, offering filmmakers, enthusiasts, and fans a deeper understanding of what it takes to bring such an inspiring story to life. By sharing their experiences and methodologies, Aaryan and Khan aim to inspire future projects that aspire to capture the spirit of outstanding individuals like Murlikant Petkar.
In sum, “Chandu Champion” stands as a testament to Kartik Aaryan’s dedication and Kabir Khan’s directorial excellence. As their discussion unfolds at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, it will provide invaluable insights into the making of a film that honors the extraordinary life of India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, offering inspiration to filmmakers and audiences alike.
