Kartik Aaryan’s latest film, Chandu Champion, has struck a chord with audiences across the globe, earning a stellar rating of 9.2 on BookMyShow and an impressive 8.7 on IMDb. Directed by the acclaimed Kabir Khan and jointly produced alongside Sajid Nadiadwala, the film hit the theatres on June 14, 2024, and has since been a tour de force in cinema. This remarkable reception has positioned Chandu Champion as the highest-rated film of this quarter across all platforms, sparking monumental word-of-mouth publicity from all corners.
The biographical film chronicles the inspiring life of India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, Murlikant Petkar. Petkar made history at the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany by winning the 50 metres freestyle swimming competition. His journey from a soldier in the Indian Army who became paraplegic due to injuries sustained in the 1965 India-Pakistan war, to a world-class athlete, forms the crux of this compelling narrative.
Kabir Khan, known for his exceptional storytelling in films like ’83’ and ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’, shared his experience in casting Kartik Aaryan for the pivotal role of Chandu. In an interview with IANS, Kabir expressed how Kartik Aaryan seemed like the perfect fit for the role right from the scriptwriting stage. “While penning down the script, I had an image of the character in my mind. The character’s age, personality, and attitude were crucial. When we finally met for a 2.5-hour discussion, Kartik’s wit, enthusiasm, and passion for the role were evident. A director’s gut instinct is very strong, and I knew right then that Kartik was our Chandu Champion.”
Kartik Aaryan’s commitment to the role was apparent from the beginning. Kabir revealed that he had two crucial questions during their meeting: one about getting a haircut and the other concerning the demanding body transformation required to portray an international-level athlete. Kartik accepted both challenges without hesitation, reinforcing Kabir’s choice.
The film doesn’t merely capture Petkar’s swimming accolades but also delves into his military days, including a gripping 8-minute-long war scene that showcases the intense training and sacrifices of Indian soldiers.
. This realistic portrayal has won the hearts of the audience and critics alike, further cementing the film’s success.
Kartik Aaryan’s portrayal of Petkar is being lauded not just for its authenticity but also for the emotional depth he brings to the character. The rigorous preparation Kartik underwent is clearly visible on screen, adding layers of nuance to his performance.
Chandu Champion’s success is not limited to its ratings. The film is also making waves at the box office, establishing a strong presence and continues to generate substantial revenue. The overwhelming reviews reflect in its numbers, making it one of the most profitable films of the year so far.
Sajid Nadiadwala, a veteran in the film production domain, enthusiastically commented on the film’s success. He mentioned how proud he was of the cast and crew’s dedication and hard work, which greatly contributed to this cinematic triumph. He also highlighted that storytelling, especially stories that stem from real-life heroes, has the power to resonate deeply with audiences, and Chandu Champion is a testament to that.
Apart from the critical acclaim, fans across social media platforms are celebrating the film, with hashtags like #ChanduChampion and #KartikAaryan trending globally. Audiences are sharing their views, lauding the film’s inspiring story, direction, and Kartik’s phenomenal performance.
The film’s soundtrack, composed by the renowned music director Pritam, has also gained considerable acclaim. The emotionally evocative tracks beautifully complement the storyline, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The song ‘Jeet Ka Junoon’ has become particularly popular, resonating with the film’s theme of perseverance and triumph.
As Chandu Champion continues to perform exceedingly well across various platforms, it becomes clear that the film is more than just a box office hit. It is a moving tribute to a national hero, an inspiring tale of grit and determination, and a cinematic masterpiece that has struck an emotional chord with audiences everywhere.
The film’s success story emphasizes the powerful impact of well-told real-life narratives in cinema. With glowing reviews, impressive ratings, and strong box office performance, Chandu Champion has undoubtedly set a high benchmark for biographical dramas in the Indian film industry. As viewers continue to flock to theatres, one thing remains certain: Chandu Champion is a hit that will be remembered for years to come.
