“Chandu Champion,” a Hindi biographical sports drama released on June 14, 2024, directed by Kabir Khan and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, brings to life the extraordinary journey of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist, portrayed by Kartik Aaryan. Despite its underwhelming box office haul of ₹88.14 crore worldwide, the film earns praise for its emotional depth, Kartik’s dedication, and its effort to spotlight an unsung hero.

The narrative begins in 2017 with an elderly Murlikant (Kartik Aaryan) lodging a complaint against the President of India at a police station for not receiving an Arjuna Award. From there, it flashes back to 1952 in Islampur, Maharashtra, where a young boy from humble beginnings dreams of Olympic glory. His journey takes him from wrestling to joining the army, dabbling in boxing, surviving nine bullets in the 1965 Indo-Pak war that leave him paralyzed from the waist down, and ultimately winning gold in swimming at the 1972 Heidelberg Paralympics. It’s a rollercoaster of resilience and reinvention.

Kabir Khan pours his heart into crafting an uplifting drama, and he succeeds in parts. The second half, depicting Murlikant’s darkest moments and triumphant comeback, grips you tightly. The war sequence, shot in a single take, and the climactic swimming scenes showcase cinematographer Sudeep Chatterjee’s brilliance. Pritam’s background score amplifies the emotions, though the songs, barring “Satyanaash,” fail to leave a mark.

Kartik Aaryan is the film’s beating heart. His physical transformation—dropping from 39% to 7% body fat—and his immersion into Murlikant’s spirit are remarkable. He captures the character’s innocence, stubbornness, and grit with authenticity, especially shining in the elderly Murlikant scenes. Vijay Raaz (Coach Tiger Ali) leaves an impression in his limited role, while Bhuvan Arora (Gurnail Singh) and Rajpal Yadav (Topaz) lend natural charm. However, Bhagyashree Borse’s character feels underwritten, and Murlikant’s family dynamics lack depth.

Where “Chandu Champion” falters is in its adherence to a predictable sports biopic template. It treads the path of films like “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” or “83” but lacks their freshness or intensity. The first half drags with overly dramatic and clichéd moments—like Murlikant’s fear on his first flight or the villagers’ repetitive mockery. The climax, while moving, misses the adrenaline rush this genre demands. The script skims over his familial ties and the nation’s indifference, leaving an emotional void.

Yet, “Chandu Champion” remains a sincere effort. It makes you laugh, cry, and draws inspiration from Murlikant Petkar’s unyielding spirit. It proves that true championship lies in courage and self-belief, not just physical prowess. Urban audiences will connect with its sentiment, though it may not resonate as strongly with the masses.

Rating: 3.5/5

“Chandu Champion” is a film that touches the heart but doesn’t fully seize the mind. Kartik Aaryan’s career-best performance and Kabir Khan’s sensitive direction make it worth a watch. It’s the story of a champion who never gave up, even if the world forgot him.