Murlikant Petkar: All You Need To Know About The Inspirational Figure Behind Chandu Champion

Kartik Aaryan, usually known for his conventional roles, recently set the internet abuzz with the announcement of his latest project. The actor revealed that his upcoming movie, ‘Chandu Champion,’ will be a biographical sports drama. Fans were particularly struck by Aaryan’s physical transformation for the role.

Scheduled for release on June 14, 2024, the film has already generated significant anticipation. Before seeing Aaryan in this new avatar, take the time to learn about the real-life story of Murlikant and his remarkable journey.

Who Is Murlikant Petkar?

Murlikant Petkar was born in 1944 in the Peth Islampur region of Sangli, Maharashtra. After completing his education, he joined the Indian Army, starting his career in the Boys Battalion. Through dedication and perseverance, he rose to the rank of jawan in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME). During the 1965 war between India and Pakistan, Murlikant sustained severe bullet wounds, leading to a disability, as per News18.

Despite his disability, the Indian Army jawan, who was originally a boxer at EME, Secunderabad, did not let his injury stop his involvement in sports. He had won the national boxing title in 1965, but the injury forced him to explore other sports. He took up swimming and participated in various other sports. Murlikant competed in the 1968 Summer Paralympics, where he played tennis and managed to clear the first round. He went on to win four medals in swimming and continued to excel in sports. Later, he worked for TELCO in Pune. The true story of Murlikant Petkar's entry into sports forms the basis of Kartik Aaryan’s upcoming movie, 'Chandu Champion.'

Murlikant Petkar’s Awards

Murlikant Petkar is celebrated as India's first Paralympic gold medallist. At the 1972 Summer Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany, he won a gold medal and set a world record in the 50 m freestyle swimming event with a time of 37.33 seconds. Beyond swimming, Petkar also excelled in javelin, precision javelin throw, and slalom, reaching the finals in all three events. He secured a silver medal in the javelin throw and a bronze in shot put. From 1969 to 1973, he consistently won the General Championship Cup for five consecutive years. Additionally, he earned a gold medal at the 1970 Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Edinburgh, Scotland.

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Recognising his remarkable achievements, Petkar was awarded the Padma Shri in 2018, according to the official website of Murlikant Petkar.

Trailer Of ‘Chandu Champion’

Directed by Kabir Khan, the film ‘Chandu Champion’ stars Kartik Aaryan in the role of a boxer, wrestler, and soldier. It is a biopic of Murlikant Petkar, India's first Paralympic gold medallist. The trailer highlights Kartik's journey and transformation, both on and off-screen. The actor has undergone a significant physical transformation for the role. The story follows a man who dreams of becoming a champion and joins the Army to hone his skills and represent India in the Olympics. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and Kabir Khan, 'Chandu Champion' is set to hit the big screen on June 14, 2024.

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