Kabir Khan’s “Chandu Champion” is a powerful biopic that chronicles the extraordinary journey of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist.
The film, starring Kartik Aaryan, Bhuvan Arora, Rajpal Yadav, Hemangi Kavi, Bhagyashri Borse, and Vijay Raaz, tells the compelling story of Petkar’s triumph at the 1973 Paralympics in Heidelberg, Germany, where he won gold in the 50-meter freestyle swimming event.
The narrative offers a fictionalized retelling of Petkar’s life, focusing on his transformation from a war-wounded soldier to a celebrated athlete.
Kartik Aaryan, in the lead role, delivers a remarkable performance, convincingly portraying Petkar’s evolution from a traditional wrestler to a boxer and finally a swimmer. His dedication to the physical and emotional challenges of the character is particularly compelling in the boxing and swimming scenes, capturing the intensity of Petkar’s journey.
Aaryan’s portrayal is enhanced by the strong supporting cast. Bhuvan Arora, as Karnail Singh, plays a crucial role in Petkar’s success, offering unwavering friendship and encouragement. Vijay Raaz stands out as Tiger Ali, Petkar’s boxing coach, whose motivational presence is a constant source of inspiration. Rajpal Yadav and Hemangi Kavi also deliver noteworthy performances, adding depth to the story.
Kabir Khan masterfully blends fact with fiction, creating a narrative that is both authentic and cinematically engaging.
The film’s technical aspects, including action choreography and background score, significantly enhance the storytelling, immersing the audience in the emotional highs and lows of Petkar’s journey. The war sequences, though brief, are impactful, vividly depicting the horrors of battle.
“Chandu Champion” excels in capturing the essence of Petkar’s resilience and the support of those around him. The film is not just a sports biopic but a testament to human endurance and the strength found in solidarity.
Kabir Khan has crafted a compelling tribute to Murlikant Petkar’s legacy, leaving viewers inspired by his indomitable spirit and remarkable achievements. This film is a moving celebration of perseverance and the transformative power of support and friendship.
Overall, “Chandu Champion” has received an average user rating of 4.5/5 and a critic’s rating of 3.5/5. With a runtime of 2 hours and 23 minutes, this drama biopic is a captivating watch, highlighting an inspirational chapter in sports history.
