January 2, 2025: Actor Kartik Aaryan has expressed his immense joy after Murlikant Petkar, the para-swimmer and Paralympic gold medalist, was announced as a recipient of the Arjuna Award (Lifetime) for his remarkable contribution to sports. Kartik, who portrayed Murlikant Petkar in the biopic Chandu Champion, shared his heartfelt excitement and admiration for the athlete’s resilience and dedication.
Kartik said, “So, so, so happy to hear this news! While working on his biopic, I came to know about his life in such great detail and up close and personal that his win feels deeply personal. He has remained unbreakable and solid throughout his life, despite all the challenges destiny threw at him.”
Kartik, known for his roles in films like Bhool Bhulaiyaa, reflected on how the news of Murlikant’s award was the “best way to start the year.” He praised Petkar’s “headstrong” attitude and sportsmanship, describing the para-athlete as a true champion and one of a kind. “I have met many sports personalities, but Murlikant sir’s sportsmanship and headstrong attitude are unmatched. Hearing about this honour is the best way to start the year. Murlikant sir, you are our country’s finest champion – truly one of a kind,” Kartik added.
Murlikant Petkar made history by winning India’s first gold medal in the Paralympic Games, and this momentous achievement has continued to inspire millions. Kartik’s portrayal of Murlikant in the film Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, was deeply influenced by the athlete’s real-life journey. The film, based on Petkar’s life, showcases the struggles and triumphs of a man who overcame extraordinary challenges to achieve greatness.
Kartik has often shared his admiration for Murlikant Petkar, especially after working on the film. Following the release of Chandu Champion, the actor penned a heartfelt note and shared a behind-the-scenes video that captured the moment he met Petkar and his family. In the video, Kabir Khan, the director, is seen warmly welcoming Petkar’s family, while Kartik receives heartfelt appreciation from the athlete himself. Kartik referred to Murlikant’s praise as a “medal” in itself.
Kartik’s emotional post read, “Couldn’t have imagined a non-swimmer like myself swimming without the use of legs. Meet The Real Champion who inspired me to achieve the impossible @murlikantpetkar.” He further shared how, when the story of Chandu Champion was first narrated to him, he couldn’t believe that it was based on a real-life person. “Aapne ek zindagi mein, anek zindagiyan jo jee hain!!” he wrote.
He continued, “From not being able to believe your story in the first place to living your extraordinary life for almost two years, it’s been an incredible experience and the utmost honour. My life has changed ever since you have entered it.”
Expressing gratitude, Kartik concluded, “It’s overwhelming!! Really fortunate that I got the opportunity to meet you and relive some unbelievable, magical and inspiring moments of your life. Actor banna safal ho gaya. #Gratitude #ChanduChampion.”
Award Ceremony:
Murlikant Petkar will be formally honored with the Arjuna Award (Lifetime) at a special ceremony on January 17, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he will receive the award from the President of India.
This recognition adds another prestigious honor to Murlikant’s list of achievements, further cementing his legacy as a trailblazer for para-athletes in India. For Kartik Aaryan, playing such a pivotal role in sharing Murlikant’s inspiring story with the world has been a deeply fulfilling and transformative experience.
