Chandu Champion is a biographical drama that tells the tale of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. It is a real-life story of dedication, resilience, and grit. Directed by Kabir Khan, this film features actor Kartik Aaryan as the celebrated sportsman.
Man who is the inspiration behind the film Chandu Champion
Kartik Aryan starrer Chandu Champion is making rounds these days. It all started when Kabir Khan was profoundly moved when he first came to know about Murlikant Petkar’s incredible life story. He felt a strong urge to share Petkar’s journey with a wider audience. In an interview with India Today, Kabir Khan expressed his excitement, saying, “I feel so lucky that I got the chance to tell this story. It’s one of the most powerful underdog stories I’ve ever heard.”Khan emphasized the importance of bringing Petkar’s story to the public eye. He explained, “This is a story that India needs to know. Murlikant Petkar is a hero who has been largely forgotten, and that’s something we need to change. His achievements are extraordinary, and his journey is incredibly inspiring.”
Before you watch “Chandu Champion,” here’s something to know about the real-life story of Murlikant Petkar. Born in Peth Islampur, Sangli, Maharashtra, Petkar had a natural talent for sports from a young age, especially in boxing. His early success in sports, such as beating the village head’s son in a competition, led him to join the Boys Battalion of the Indian Army in Pune. In the Indian Army, Murlikant Petkar became a jawan in Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME). He was recognized for his exceptional sporting abilities and represented India in boxing at the International Services Sports Meet in Tokyo, Japan, in 1964.
The incident that changed Murlikant Petkar’s life
Murlikant Petkar’s life changed dramatically during the Indo-Pak war of 1965. While in Kashmir, he sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was run over by a car during an aerial attack. This traumatic event left him physically disabled and caused memory loss. Revealing about his horrific experience, Petkar shared, “One bullet still remains lodged in my spine as a reminder. I spent 16 months in various hospitals, fighting a battle for my recovery. The doctors suggested I take up swimming to help my recovery. It soon became my passion.”Despite his disability, Murlikant Petkar did not let his circumstances stop him from pursuing sports. He competed in the Summer Paralympics in 1968, participating in table tennis and swimming. He also excelled in shot-put, javelin throw, discus throw, weightlifting, and archery.
Murlikant Petkar’s achievements
Murlikant Petkar made history at the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany. He became the first Indian to win an individual gold medal at the Olympics by securing gold in the 50-meter freestyle swimming event with a record time of 37.33 seconds. His accomplishments include 12 gold medals in international events, 34 gold medals at the national level, and 40 gold medals at the state level. His story is showcased through this film which celebrates the incredible life and achievements of Murlikant Petkar, a true hero who overcame immense challenges. In the film, Kartik Aaryan portrays this remarkable sportsman leaving no stone unturned just to fit into the character. For this, the actor underwent a major physical transformation and remained on a strict diet. Undoubtedly his work is worth appreciating.
Also, read
